The Selma Times-Journal

The field of candidates to replace Dr. James Carter as superintendent of Selma City Schools has narrowed to five.

School Board president John D. Williams said Wednesday during a called meeting that the goal is to have a new superintendent in place by January.

The final five candidates of the 12 who applied for the job are:

& Tyrone W. Smith of Fairfield, director of the Opportunity Academy at Riggins, Birmingham City Schools. He has a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University and a master’s from Alabama A&M.

& Brenda P. Seals of Fredericksburg, Va., assistant superintendent of Spotsylvania County Public Schools. She has a doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University and a master’s from Texas Southern University.

& Yvette M. Richardson of Fairfield, principal of Robinson Elementary. She has a doctorate from the University of Alabama and a master’s from Samford University.

& Kenneth P. Oliver of Jones, principal of Booker T. Washington High School, Tuskegee. He received his doctorate from Nova Southeastern University and a master’s from Texas A & M University.

& Donald G. Jefferson of Selma, facilitator of comprehensive monitoring for the state Department of Education. He received his doctorate from Alabama State University and his master’s from Troy State University.

The school board will review the five candidates and decide who to interview.

The interview will be split into two parts. First, a reception for the candidates to to meet with the community and follow up with an in-depth question-and-answer session.

Then, the board will vote on the superintendent.