VIDALIA — The newest man responsible for decisions affecting Concordia schools is now officially on board.

District 4 Place A board member Ronnie Bradford was sworn into office Thursday at the Concordia Parish Clerk of Court’s Office by Clerk of Court Clyde Ray Webber.

Bradford was appointed by the school board to fill the unexpired term of Ricky Raven, who recently resigned his seat after moving out of district.

A business owner and resident of Ferriday, Bradford said he has a vested interest in the school system.

“I have a personal interest in serving in that I have a daughter who serves in the school system and grandchildren who attend in the school system,” he said.

Since he was appointed in late June, Bradford hasn’t been able to be seated at the board table because he was waiting to receive his commission from the state.

After receiving the commission, he was able to take the oath of office, and will be at the table when the roll is called at the board’s next meeting.

While he was not able to join the board at its regular July meeting, Bradford attended, and he said he has been preparing for the next meeting.

“I have just been doing a little looking and reviewing of personnel and that kind of thing,” he said.

The term he was appointed to fill will expire in December.

Bradford has qualified to run for the seat in the fall elections.

He will see a challenge from Charles E. Minor of Ferriday.