Richland One Responds to Inspector General’s Report Regarding Construction Project

Inspector General’s Report: Vince Ford Early Learning Center

Statement from Richland One Board Chairman Dr. Aaron Bishop

“After reviewing the Inspector General’s (IG) report on Richland One’s Vince Ford Early Learning Center (VFELC) construction project, I want to thank the IG and his team for a thorough analysis of this key project. As the report importantly points out, the IG found no evidence of criminal or fraudulent activity in the district’s management of the VFELC project. Furthermore, the IG’s report emphasizes how state agencies and the General Assembly need to clarify the current law related to the permitting and oversight of early learning centers, not only for the VFELC project specifically, but also for the benefit of all such schools across the State of South Carolina. I look forward to working with these groups, the Board of School Commissioners and the district’s administrative team to complete this vital community project quickly and in full compliance with all guidelines that are addressed in the IG report.”

Statement from Richland One Superintendent Dr. Craig Witherspoon

“The Richland One Board of Commissioners and my administrative team at all times did our best to advance this much-needed project for our youngest children’s school readiness and at no time did we knowingly evade or ignore the rules for such projects. While we acknowledge that there may have been misunderstandings early in the procurement and construction process, we stand by our unwavering commitment to ensure that we continue to meet the educational and developmental needs of children throughout the district. We remain focused on completing the Vince Ford Early Learning Center project in a timely manner, in compliance with all guidelines and in cooperation with all stakeholders.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Regarding the Vince Ford Early Learning Center Project