We understand that the challenges that go into successfully leading a school system are many and great. This is why we know that Dr. Cecil Snead was an impressive leader as superintendent of Buckingham County Public Schools (BCPS).

In his time with the school division stretching back to August 2012, he helped lead it forward and, as he said, worked to create major changes within instruction, technology, transportation and facilities.

His success drew the attention of the Orange County School Board and led to him moving to a different part of Virginia to lead Orange County Public Schools.

We would like to thank Dr. Snead for his service to Buckingham and wish him well moving forward.

We would also like to issue a warm welcome to the new BCPS superintendent announced earlier this week by the Buckingham County School Board — Dr. Daisy Hicks.

Hicks, who officially starts Sept. 10, brings significant experience with her. She is coming to Buckingham from nearby Nottoway County Public Schools, and we are excited that she also has previously worked across the Heart of Virginia in Cumberland, Prince Edward and Buckingham.

“I am excited, honored and humbled to be selected as the new superintendent of Buckingham County Public Schools and look forward to collaborating with the school board, staff, parents and community,” Hicks said in the school division press release. “I am committed to providing all students with an exceptional educational experience.”

Buckingham County School Board Chairman Thomas Hutcherson noted Hicks said, “We welcome Dr. Hicks to Buckingham County Public Schools. Her leadership and experience will be a great asset to the community and to the school division.”

He added that she earned a doctor of educational leadership degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, an education specialist degree from Cambridge College, a master’s degree in instruction from Central Michigan University and Bachelor of Science degree in organizational management from Saint Paul’s College.

We’re sure that the challenges will continue to be many and great in the leadership of BCPS, but have confidence in Dr. Hicks and like Dr. Snead, we wish her the best moving forward.