Lexington County School District 1 has named its new superintendent.

At an Oct. 4 meeting, the district’s Board of Trustees unanimously selected former Charleston County School District superintendent Gerrita Postlewait to replace Greg Little, who departed as District 1’s leader in June, according to a news release.

“When the search began, we asked our community what qualifications and characteristics we should look for in our next superintendent,” reads a statement from Board Chair Anne Marie Green.

“Overwhelmingly, the Lexington District One family said they wanted a skilled communicator who demonstrates a strong background in curriculum and instruction and is committed to ensuring strong accountability toward student achievement results. Integrity, compassion, and clear, decisive leadership and vision were consistent themes.”

“The board is excited that Dr. Postlewait brings her vast experience in moving student achievement forward to Lexington One,” the statement concludes. “She is a strong, knowledgeable, trustworthy leader, and we look forward to the success that students and staff will achieve as she leads our great school district.”

Postlewait led the unified Charleston County School District for six years before reaching a separation agreement with that district in January. She has served as Lexington 1’s interim superintendent since July.

“I am honored to officially join such a dynamic school district,” Postlewait is quoted in the release. “I am excited to serve the students and staff, as we continue this important work.”

Little left the Lexington 1 superintendent job to take a leadership role with the S.C. Technical College System.

The search to replace him led to the announcement of five finalists, each of which toured schools and facilities and attended informal public meetings in addition to interviewing with the board last month. The candidates’ visits took place over the course of a week, with Postlewait going first.

Lexington 1 is the most populous school district in the county. The student population of the district was 27,673 as of the latest headcount available from the state Department of Education, making it the sixth largest district in the state. At 49,037 students, the Charleston County School District is the second largest.