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The Dallas County Board of Education voted 3-1 to enter into contract negotiations with Anthony Sampson to serve as Dallas County Schools Superintendent during a meeting held Thursday evening in the Dallas County Courthouse Commissioners Chamber.

One of four finalists to interview for the job, Sampson worked in education for 23 years as part of the Baldwin County School System while also serving in the U.S. Army Reserves for 30 years, achieving the rank of Colonel. Sampson will replace current Superintendent Hattie Shelton, who is retiring.

Board President Mark Story said he thought all four candidates who interviewed were outstanding, but he really liked the attributes and leadership skills Sampson brought to the table. “This is not to take away from the candidates that we did interview,” Story said. “We were blessed to have the opportunity to have four outstanding candidates. We just felt the need to go the route we’re going. We’re looking forward to him coming on board and taking on the challenges that we have here.”

Story said Sampson would be notified of his selection and the board would iron out the details on the contract offer. He anticipated the process to be complete by the end of June.

District 1 Board Member William Minor made the initial recommendation to hire Sampson before the board issued a vote. “He was very intelligent,” Minor said. “We felt that he was the best man for the job.”

Board member Leroy Miles abstained from voting due to his wife, Selma School Board Member Dr. Tanya Miles, being one of the finalists for the job.

Story commended the duo for their professionalism as the board went through the process.