TO RECOGNIZE AND HONOR DR. MICHAEL LUCAS, DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF OCONEE COUNTY, UPON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT AFTER THIRTY-FIVE YEARS OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE IN EDUCATION, AND TO WISH HIM CONTINUED SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS IN ALL HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate are pleased to learn that Dr. Michael Lucas will begin a well-deserved retirement on May 2, 2014, after a lifetime of significant contributions in the field of education; and

Whereas, beginning his career in education teaching middle and high school social studies in Chesterfield County, Michael Lucas later assumed positions as an elementary and middle school principal in suburban Columbia; and

Whereas, he first served the School District of Oconee County as the assistant superintendent for instructional services for two years and has been serving as the district superintendent of the School District of Oconee County since 2007; and

Whereas, Dr. Lucas earned three degrees in the field of education from the University of South Carolina; a bachelor's, a master's and an educational specialist degree; and

Whereas, he completed his doctorate at Seton Hall University in the area of educational management, leadership, and policy; and

Whereas, the South Carolina Senate is grateful for the years of exemplary dedication that Michael Lucas has devoted to education in the Palmetto State and wish him many years of enjoyment in his well-earned retirement. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize and honor Dr. Michael Lucas, District Superintendent of the School District of Oconee County, upon the occasion of his retirement after thirty-five years of outstanding service in education, and wish him continued success and happiness in all his future endeavors.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Dr. Michael Lucas.