The Jackson County School Board approved the hiring of current Butler County School System Superintendent Dr. John Strycker as the next leader of the Mississippi Gulf Coast district late this afternoon.

Rumors began circulating that Strycker was the frontrunner for the position over the weekend. His hiring was a unanimous decision.

Strycker’s term will be from Jan. 1, 2020, until June 30, 2023. He replaces the current superintendent, Dr. Barry Amacker.

Previously, superintendents in the State of Mississippi could be elected. A new Mississippi Law now requires school districts appoint superintendents.

Strycker was not immediately available for comment.

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