Kershaw, South Carolina, December 14, 2025
Kelli Overcash, principal of Kershaw Elementary School in South Carolina, has been recognized as the 2026 Elementary Principal of the Year. Under her leadership since 2017, the school has seen significant improvements, achieving an Excellent performance rating. Overcash’s commitment to educational excellence and strong community engagement exemplifies the positive impact of effective leadership in schools.
Kershaw Elementary School Principal Honored as South Carolina’s 2026 Elementary Principal of the Year
Kershaw, South Carolina – A shining example of educational leadership and community commitment has emerged from Kershaw Elementary School as Kelli Overcash has been named the 2026 South Carolina Elementary Principal of the Year. This honor underscores her unwavering dedication to fostering student achievement and excellence since she began her tenure at the school.
Under Kelli Overcash’s leadership since 2017, Kershaw Elementary has transformed into a beacon of educational success, improving its performance rating from Average to a sustained Excellent report card rating. This commendable achievement highlights how positive leadership can directly influence school performance and, by extension, bolster community development.
Leadership and Achievements
Kelli Overcash has not only been a principal; she has driven a cultural shift within the educational framework of Kershaw Elementary. Her proactive approach towards pedagogical innovation and community engagement has led to substantial academic improvements. Overcash’s efforts in collaboration with staff, parents, and community leaders exemplify how strong leadership can yield meaningful results in education.
Career Background
With over two decades of experience in the field of education, Overcash’s career trajectory includes roles as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal at various institutions within both Lancaster County and Greenville County. Each position has provided her with invaluable insights into educational dynamics, informing her effective leadership style and strategic vision for Kershaw Elementary.
District Recognition
Superintendent of Lancaster County School District, Dr. Raashad Fitzpatrick, expressed considerable pride in Overcash’s accomplishments. The recognition as the Elementary Principal of the Year reflects not only her individual achievements but also highlights the cooperative spirit prevalent within the Lancaster County educational community.
Statewide Impact
The nomination of Overcash, put forth by Dr. Carl Carpenter and Dr. Norris Williams, among thirty-two state nominees, illustrates the extensive impact she has made throughout the educational landscape in South Carolina. Her win serves as an inspiration to other educators and exemplifies the significant contributions of school leaders to student success and community well-being.
Community Celebration
Celebration is in order, as Kershaw and its surrounding community come together to honor Overcash’s accomplishment. The local recognition affirms the shared commitment to educational excellence and encourages continued support for the initiatives being implemented within Kershaw Elementary. The hope is that her successes will inspire others in the community to strive for improvement and ultimately enhance the overall educational landscape in the region.
Conclusion
As Kelli Overcash advances in her educational career, her recognition as South Carolina’s 2026 Elementary Principal of the Year serves as a reminder of the importance of dedicated leadership in schools. Fostering an environment that prioritizes educational excellence not only benefits students but enhances community resilience and growth. Local residents and stakeholders are encouraged to support their schools, engage with leadership, and contribute positively to the educational journey of all students. Together, we can build a brighter future for the next generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kelli Overcash?
Kelli Overcash is the principal of Kershaw Elementary School in Kershaw, South Carolina, recognized as the 2026 South Carolina Elementary Principal of the Year for her exceptional leadership and dedication to educational excellence.
What is the significance of this award?
The South Carolina Elementary Principal of the Year award honors outstanding principals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to their schools and communities.
What has Overcash accomplished at Kershaw Elementary?
Since becoming principal in 2017, Overcash has led Kershaw Elementary to improve its performance rating from Average to a sustained Excellent report card rating, reflecting her effective leadership and commitment to educational excellence.
What is Overcash’s background in education?
Overcash has over two decades of experience in education, including roles as a teacher, career development facilitator, assistant principal, and principal at various schools within the Lancaster County School District and Greenville County.
How was Overcash selected for this award?
Overcash was nominated by Dr. Carl Carpenter and Dr. Norris Williams, among thirty-two nominees statewide, and her selection highlights the significant impact of her leadership on the educational community in South Carolina.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Award | South Carolina Elementary Principal of the Year 2026 |
| Recipient | Kelli Overcash, Principal of Kershaw Elementary School |
| School Performance Improvement | Improved from Average to sustained Excellent report card rating under Overcash’s leadership |
| Career Background | Over two decades in education, including roles as teacher, career development facilitator, assistant principal, and principal in Lancaster County and Greenville County |
| Nomination | Nominated by Dr. Carl Carpenter and Dr. Norris Williams, among thirty-two statewide nominees |
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