Two principals within the Pike County School system were named finalists in the search for a new Elba City Schools superintendent.

Goshen High School Principal Al Griffin and Pike County High School Principal Mike Hall, along with State Rep. Terry Spicer, was selected for the position, were named finalists for the position.

Both Griffin and Hall cited professional growth as their reasons for applying for the position.

“I have my doctorate, and I have a broad background of 20 years in education,” Griffin said. “I felt I had the background and experience to be a good candidate.”

“When I decided to go back and pursue a doctorate that was one of my goals to become superintendent,” Hall said. “I am very happy where I am, but I wanted to pursue some personal goals.”

According to Griffin, Elba City Schools had a high school, elementary and career tech center.

“I have served as a principal in a high school setting and a career tech center,” Griffin said. “I have also been in a K-12 situation.”

PCS Superintendent Mark Bazzell said he was aware the two were applying for the position.

“I knew that they had applied,” Bazzell said. “Any of our employees who want to apply for a position and advance, we are certainly supportive of that.”

“I made Dr. Bazzell, my superintendent and the board aware that I was pursuing this position,” Hall said.