SPRINGFIELD -- Dr. Yancy Ford has been named the sole finalist in the search for a successor to Dr. Randy Shearouse as superintendent of the Effingham County School District.

Ford, the district's assistant superintendent since 2016, was approved unanimously during Thursday's regularly scheduled meeting of the Effingham County Board of Education. His hiring is expected to become official during the next board meeting Feb. 5.

 Shearouse, Effingham County superintendent for 15 years, announced last fall that he will retire in June after serving the district for more than 30 years in various roles. He is the finalist to become the superintendent in Limestone County, Ala. 

Ford has worked in Effingham County since 1999, serving as a principal, teacher, athletic director and coach.