After serving six years as Superintendent of Schools in Pocahontas County, Dr. J. Patrick Law has applied for the position of Superintendent of Wood County Schools.

Law, a native of Wood County explained his decision to The Parkersburg News and Sentinel.

"Wood County is one of the premier school systems in the state of West Virginia. Its reputation in this state is one of strong academics, an outstanding extracurricular program and excellent parent and community support," he told the Sentinel. "But the primary reason I am interested in becoming the next superintendent is due to the fact that Wood County is where I was born and raised. The fact that I chose a career in education is due in large part to the education and experiences I received while a student here."

Law's contract with Pocahontas County Schools expires in June.

Other candidates for the Wood County job are John D. Merritt, director of federal programs, Wood County Schools; Kenneth D. Ratliff, assistant superintendent, Fairland Local School District, Proctorville, Ohio; and Sue E. Woodward, director school improvement-public relations, Wood County Schools.