By Julio Morales
SWAN QUARTER— September 10, 2026 — Hyde County Schools is pleased to welcome Santasha Cooper as the newest member of the Hyde County Schools Board of Education.
Cooper was appointed to the Board of Education on August 25, following the resignation of former board member Dustin Nails. She was officially sworn in and seated during the Board’s regular meeting this week on September 8.
“I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to serve the students, families, educators, and community of Hyde County,” Cooper said. “I look forward to listening, learning, building relationships, and working together to support our children and help ensure they have every opportunity to succeed.”
See gallery of photos from the swearing-in ceremony at the end of the story. The story’s feature photo shows Santasha Cooper, family, relatives, Superintendent Melanie Shaver, Board Chair Chanta Rickard, and Board MemberEdward Torres.
A devoted mother of four and proud Nana to six grandchildren, Cooper brings a wealth of professional, ministry, entrepreneurial, and community experience to her new role. As an experienced administrative professional, ministry leader, entrepreneur, and community advocate, she has built her life and work around serving others and strengthening the community she calls home.
Through her involvement with H&L’s Restaurant LLC, End-Time Living Water Ministries, and Excellence Without Excuse, Cooper has developed a deep passion for serving families, supporting children, and creating opportunities for people to thrive. Her experiences working alongside children, families, and community members have given her a unique perspective and a strong desire to contribute to the future of Hyde County’s students.
Cooper is especially excited about the opportunity to serve on the Board of Education because she believes every child deserves the opportunity, support, and resources needed to succeed.
As she begins her service on the Board, Cooper is committed to bringing compassion, accountability, community involvement, and a heart for children to every decision and opportunity to serve.
Hyde County Schools looks forward to the experience, perspective, and dedication Cooper will bring to the Board of Education and welcomes her as she begins this new chapter of service to the students and families of Hyde County.
Gallery — click to enlarge
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