The Butler County Board of Education will name a new superintendent Thursday.

The opening was created when former Superintendent Darren Douthitt announced his resignation in January in order to accept the same position with the Anniston City School System.

The board has narrowed its search to Amy Bryan, who was named interim superintendent, and Charles Alford.

Bryan has worked in the Butler County School System for 26 years, 13 of which have been spent in various administrative roles.

Along with serving as interim superintendent, Bryan also serves as federal programs and grants director for the district.

Bryan said that it has been challenging to hold both jobs, but that she felt it was what was best for the school system.

“I knew that I could do the job and that we need someone who has the best interest of our students, schools and community in mind with every decision rather than someone who would use us as a stepping stone for another job,” Bryan said. “I also had tremendous encouragement from many directions.”

Alford has spent 12 years teaching in the classroom, followed by four years as both assistant principal and as principal in Luverne.

He also has experience in the central office, where he worked in maintenance, transportation, safety, residency, federal programs, career tech and more.

He currently serves as the director of federal and career technical programs for the Crenshaw County School System.

“I understand that Mrs. Bryan is very good, and therefore probably the leading candidate, and I would understand that,” Alford said. “But if they give me a chance, I’ll show them.  I’m from this area, and I go to Greenville all the time.  We eat over there and go to Walmart, and I’m in the community.  I’ve already been looking to potentially move over there.  If it works out, I’ll make them happy, is all I can say.”

The announcement will me made at the board’s regular meeting, which is slated for 6 p.m. at the Central Office Boardroom at 949 Oglesby St. in Greenville.