Superintendent will reimburse district $2.8K for gas pumped from school depot

VALDOSTA, Ga. — A school superintendent in South Georgia has agreed to reimburse the district $2,800 for gasoline he allegedly took from the district’s bus fueling station.

>> Read more trending news

According to video footage obtained through a public records request by The Valdosta Daily Times, Lowndes County School Superintendent Shawn Haralson pumped at least $2,800 of gasoline into the main and auxiliary tanks of his pickup truck between July 13, 2022, and Jan. 8, 2023.

The Lowndes County Board of Education launched a third-party investigation in January after the allegations surfaced, according to the newspaper.

After receiving the findings from the investigator, the school board approved a repayment plan for $2,800 for “undocumented fuel use,” according to WALB-TV. Haralson has not admitted to any wrongdoing and he has not been charged with a crime.

“Outside counsel did not find credible evidence supporting the intentional use of system fuel for personal use by the superintendent, the school district said in a statement. “However, to ensure transparency and utmost fairness to the taxpayers of the LCSD, the Superintendent has offered to reimburse the LSCD for undocumented fuel use by the Superintendent in the amount of $2,800 and the LCSD has agreed to accept the amount stated as appropriate reimbursement.”

Fuel is a reimbursable expense, WALB reported.

“If the fuel in fact was used for school-related or county-related business, then there shouldn’t be a payback,” Jody Allen, a former Lowndes County School employee, told the television station. “So I think it kind of blurs by saying he’s going to pay it back, but there was nothing done wrong. Kind of blurs whether or not something was done inappropriately.”

Haralson and school board Chairman Ronnie Weeks did not respond to the Daily Times’ requests for comment.

Haralson was hired in May 2022 and began in his position on July 1, 2022, according to the newspaper. The Times’ review of Haralson’s employee personnel file did not reveal any reprimands, punitive action or negative comments.

On Air107.3 The Eagle - Tampa Bay's Classic Hits Station Logo

See a new furry friend up for adoption each week, brought to you by Fence Outlet!


Win tickets to concerts, unique experiences, great prizes and more!


Get weather news that matters, including forecast and radar from 10 News!


Check out the newest blog, written by all of your favorite Eagle personalities!


Be the first caller to answer Fisher's "College of Rock Knowledge" weekday mornings at 7:50 and WIN! 877-595-1073


Swimming is a great recreational sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, especially here in Florida. But it’s important to know how to be safe while you’re in the water.


mobile apps

Everything you love about 1073theeagle.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!