The special election to fill former Lexington One School Board Member Beth Shealy's seat is on June 23, and three have filed to run.

Crystal Baker, Dana Homesley and Shelton Yonce have filed to run, according to the state election commission.

Baker, according to her Facebook page, Crystal Baker for Lexington One School Board, has seven children in the district.

“I’m running because I believe our schools should be a place where every child is supported, every voice is heard, and every decision is made with transparency and purpose,” her post read. “Our students deserve strong leadership that listens, collaborates, and takes action. Our teachers deserve support. Our families deserve a seat at the table.”

Homesley has two children in the district, according to homesleyforlexington1.com, and is president of the Parent Teacher Association.

“I recognize the importance of an effective school board and how the decisions they make contribute to the quality of public education. Five years ago, I began attending school board meetings and I am ready to hit the ground running once elected to the Lexington One School Board,” according to her website. “I am a cofounder of the Facebook page Informed Citizens of Lexington County School District One, a page that has grown to over 6,000 followers and is committed to keeping the community informed of the news and business of the school board and the district.”

Yonce works in commercial real estate.

“I’m ready to get to work for our community,” his Facebook post on Shelton Yonce for Lexington 1 School Board read. “I’ve had the opportunity to connect with so many of you leading up to today, and I’m truly grateful for the encouragement, conversations, and support. It’s inspiring, and it’s what makes me so optimistic about what we can accomplish together. This is a great community with a bright future, and I’m looking forward to building on that momentum.”

Homesley and Yonce both ran for seats on the board in 2024, but did not win.

Early voting for the nonpartisan race is on weekdays from June 8 to June 19.

Registered voters can vote at 605 West Main St. in Lexington, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. 

Lexington County School District One board seats represent all of Lexington County School District One, which includes 18 elementary schools, eight middle schools, five high schools and one technology center. The district serves about 27,200 students.

Whoever is elected would join Chair Kathy Henson, Secretary Chris Rice and board members Katie McCown, McKenzie Flashnick, Mike Anderson and Nick Pizzuti.

Rice's term ends in 2026 and McCown's term ends in 2026. The other current members' terms end in 2028.

Former Vice Chair Beth Shealy resigned on March 29, three days after the arrest of her husband, Richard Channing Shealy, on 13 charges related to the sexual exploitation of minors. Richard Shealy later received 20 additional related charges.

The Lexington County Chronicle organized written question-and-answers to help locals learn more about Baker, Homesley and Yonce. Below are their answers.

Crystal Baker

1. Why are you running? I’m running because I care deeply about our students, teachers, families and the future of our community. As a parent of children in Lexington One schools and as someone who has spent years volunteering and advocating within our schools, I’ve seen both the district's strengths and the areas where families want stronger communication, support and accountability. I believe every child deserves the opportunity to succeed in a safe, supportive and engaging learning environment. I’m running to be a voice that listens, works collaboratively and keeps students at the center of every decision. It’s about service, relationships and ensuring our schools continue moving forward in a positive direction for all students.

2. Have you run for office before? If so, explain: No, this is my first time running for an office.

3. Current job/profession, or if retired, past job/profession: Program Director/Community Outreach Coordinator

4. What makes you qualified for the seat? I believe I’m qualified for this seat because I bring both professional experience and real-life parent perspective to the table. I’m a mother whose children have attended Lexington One schools, and I’ve spent years actively involved in our schools through PTO, School Improvement Councils, Booster Club leadership and parent advisory groups. I’m running as a parent, advocate and community leader who genuinely cares about students, staff and families. I understand the importance of transparency, collaboration and making decisions that put children first.

5. What challenges/concerns do you see in the school district you're running to represent, and how do you intend to improve it? One of the biggest concerns I see in our district is the growing disconnect many families and staff members feel regarding communication, transparency and trust. I also recognize the challenges surrounding district growth, budgeting, teacher retention, student achievement and balancing academic expectations with the well-being of students and staff. These are not simple issues, but they require leadership that listens carefully and works collaboratively. My goal would be to improve communication between the district and families, advocate for responsible financial decisions that prioritize classrooms and student support, and continue encouraging strong academic and extracurricular opportunities for all students. I also want to help ensure our teachers and staff feel valued, because strong schools begin with strong educators. I want to be approachable and accessible to the community. I believe progress happens when people feel respected, included and part of the conversation.

6. What successes have you seen in the school district you want to build on? I’ve seen strong academic programs (such as AVID, the Learning Technology Center's Culinary program and internships with local businesses), dedicated teachers and staff, outstanding arts and athletic programs, and students accomplishing amazing things both inside and outside the classroom. Our district also offers many opportunities for students through career and technical education, advanced coursework, extracurricular activities and community partnerships.

7. Are you actively involved in the school district already? How so? I’m currently serving in PTO leadership, participating in School Improvement Councils at both the elementary and middle school levels, involved with parent advisory groups, and currently serving on Parent Advisory Council and Athletic Booster Club at the high school level, and on the district Academic Calendar & Wellness Committee.

8. Anything else you want to add? I care deeply about our students, educators, families and community. I believe our schools are strongest when people work together with respect, transparency and a shared focus on what’s best for children. I will approach this role with an open mind, a willingness to listen and a commitment to serving the entire community. I understand there will be challenges, but I also believe there is so much good happening in Lexington One that we can continue building on together. I’m running because I want to help make a positive difference and ensure every student has the support and opportunities they deserve to succeed.

Dana Homesley

1. Why are you running? I care deeply about the future of Lexington One and believe board members should be accessible, engaged and willing to ask questions on behalf of the community. We need leaders who not only advocate for students and staff, but provide a safe place where they can voice their concerns without fear of retaliation. I’m not a “yes woman,” but I won’t vote “no” just to be disagreeable, but because I fully understand the issues, have reviewed the facts and listened to the community.

2. Have you run for office before? If so, explain: Yes. I previously ran for the Lexington One Board of Trustees in 2022 and 2024, earning strong community support and finishing just short of election in 2024. I don’t consider myself a politician. School board is the only ballot I have ever put my name on.

3. Current job/profession, or if retired, past job/profession: Claims Adjuster with the S.C. Association of Counties, where I have worked for the past 15 years.

4. What makes you qualified for the seat? I already dedicate significant time to attending board meetings, committee meetings, workshops and special called meetings in person, often using annual leave time from work to stay informed and engaged. I understand the district’s current issues, budget decisions and policies, and I recognize the significant responsibility and time commitment required of school board members. I co-founded the “Informed Citizens of Lexington County School District One” Facebook page to provide timely district information and encourage community engagement. The page now reaches more than 6,000 followers and has become a resource for those seeking information about district decisions. I earned a degree from Clemson University in History with a minor in Political Science and also hold a Property and Casualty Insurance License. My background has strengthened my ability to analyze complex issues, ask informed questions and understand governance and accountability. I understand that the board’s primary responsibilities are to establish policy, hire and evaluate the superintendent, oversee district finances, and represent the community. I am prepared to serve effectively from day one.

5. What challenges/concerns do you see in the school district you're running to represent, and how do you intend to improve it? (1) We don’t have a funding problem; we have a spending problem. One of the district’s biggest challenges is ensuring taxpayer dollars are managed responsibly, transparently and with a focus on classroom priorities. I believe the community deserves a detailed, publicly accessible line-item budget. (2) I believe staff and citizens should be kept informed and given meaningful opportunities to provide feedback before major decisions are made. I would share information publicly prior to board meetings. (3) The district is currently considering a facilities plan exceeding $900 million. Before finalizing a long-term plan, board members should seek feedback from staff and community members across every attendance area. Once projects are approved, the board should receive regular, detailed project updates regarding timelines, expenditures and progress. I would advocate for a Citizen-Led Capital Projects Oversight Committee to help monitor projects, schedules, budgets and spending. (4) Capital projects should be prioritized by the board based on need and long-term impact on students, instead of relying solely on recommendations from administration. Over the last several years, the district has spent millions on iPads and artificial turf for football fields when that money could have been used for classroom additions to move students out of portables. (5) Teacher and staff retention is another major concern. The board should regularly review vacancies, turnover rates and exit survey data. How often do teachers cover classes for other teachers? How many teachers with years of experience have been replaced by less experienced teachers? How often do bus drivers run double routes and how long has the transportation department been understaffed? How competitive is our pay for substitutes and support staff? (6) Special education students and families also deserve strong advocacy and support. I have had several parents reach out to me regarding concerns they have with their child’s IEP, among other issues. (7) I believe board members need to hear directly from the people in the trenches. I would suggest advisory committees that report directly to the board: Student, Teacher and Support Staff. (8) Students in Pelion, Gilbert and White Knoll deserve the same access to a high-quality education as students in Lexington. (9) I support participating in the federal school meal program to provide no-cost meals to students as required in a state budget proviso. Our board claims this would be a “financial hardship,” although we are one of the wealthiest districts in the state and one of the few districts not currently participating. Feed the kids so they can focus. Research supports this. (10) I believe improving two-way communication between the board and the community is essential. Emails and calls deserve a response.

6. What successes have you seen in the school district you want to build on? Lexington One has many strengths, including strong academic programs, dedicated teachers and staff, and a community that deeply values public education. I would like to continue building on several positive steps the district has taken in recent years, including: (1) Aligning budget priorities with the district’s strategic plan (2) Using measurable key performance indicators to evaluate progress (3) Revising outdated board policies (4) Encouraging in-depth discussion on agenda items (5) Requiring more of administration during the budgeting process (6) Expanding opportunities for community conversations and public engagement

7. Are you actively involved in the school district already? How so? Yes. I have been actively involved in Lexington One for years by regularly attending board meetings, workshops, committee meetings and special called meetings. I currently serve in the following roles: PTA President at LES; School Improvement Council member; Parent Advisory Committee member; Praying Moms for LES participant; Town of Lexington Vision Plan Advisory Committee member

8. Anything else you want to add? I recognize and appreciate the work already being done by members of the current board, including those who are asking thoughtful questions and pushing for stronger accountability. I want to continue building on the positive direction that benefits students while also addressing the community’s call for greater transparency, stronger communication and policies that better support teachers and classrooms. Our district also depends on food service workers, custodians, instructional assistants, bus drivers, maintenance and IT staff and other support staff who play an important role in shaping the learning environment for students. We cannot expect to fully staff these critical positions if surrounding employers are offering significantly more competitive wages. Board members should always ask: “What would be most helpful for students?” and “Have we asked the community how they feel about this?” Our community deserves leadership that is focused on students, supports teachers and staff, and makes decisions with transparency and accountability. The board must be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars, using discipline in budgeting and ensuring resources are directed first to classroom needs. Just as importantly, it should remain accessible and responsive to the community, ensuring parents, staff and taxpayers are heard throughout the decision-making process.


Shelton Yonce

1. Why are you running? I was born and raised in the most rural part of Lexington One and have seen firsthand the economic and social differences within our community. I want to make sure rural students are seen and that teachers, staff and parents have a strong voice on the board.

2. Have you run for office before? If so, explain: Yes. I previously served on the Pelion Town Council.

3. Current job/profession, or if retired, past job/profession: Commercial Real Estate Broker at ERA Wilder Realty, specializing in small businesses throughout Lexington County and surrounding counties.

4. What makes you qualified for the seat? My service on the Pelion Town Council and the Lexington County Tax Assessment Board gave me hands-on experience with budgeting, fiscal accountability, contracts and making decisions that directly impact people. As a broker I am constantly negotiating and working with diverse groups and professionals.

5. What challenges/concerns do you see in the school district you're running to represent, and how do you intend to improve it? Fiscal accountability, employee retention, classroom resources and managing rapid growth while ensuring rural communities are not left behind. I will ask hard questions about spending and advocate for teachers, staff and students across all schools.

6. What successes have you seen in the school district you want to build on? Lexington One has outstanding teachers, staff and parents. My own family has worked and retired from this district. I want to build on that strong foundation for generations to come.

7. Are you actively involved in the school district already? How so? Yes. I served on the School Improvement Council for Pelion High School and currently serve on the Lexington County Tax Assessment Board of Appeals.

8. Anything else you want to add? I am a neighbor and a product of these schools. I promise an open door to parents and teachers. I am asking for your trust and your vote for every student and family in Lexington One.