Concordia Parish School Board members had a tough job in finding the next leader for the district.

But the superintendent search appears to have worked as it is supposed to, boiling down candidates to the best and brightest.

In the end, three candidates remained, each with ties to the parish.

On paper, each looked qualified and capable of leading the district, making the decision all the more difficult for school board members.

Ultimately the school board elected long-time parish educator and principal Whest Shirley.

We believe they made a great choice.

Having long known Shirley since some of his early days in teaching and coaching, we’ve observed him to be a smart, capable and caring educator.

We are delighted he will be leading the district going forward, and we realize as a long-time familiar face, he will be under much pressure to succeed.

Shirley’s temperament and leadership qualities make him well suited for the job at hand, and we feel certain he will adeptly represent all children in the district.

Congratulations on the new appointment, and we wish you the best of luck in your new role.