Brenda Byrd Recognized as National Distinguished Principal
Brenda Byrd, former principal of Bethel Elementary, has been selected South Carolina’s 2014 National Distinguished Principal. Earlier this year, Mrs. Byrd assumed new responsibilities as Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools Group 1.
The 2014 National Distinguished Principals celebration marks the 31st year that the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) has presented this prestigious award.
Mrs. Byrd was nominated by the district administration and selected by a panel of judges coordinated by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators.
“Brenda Byrd is an outstanding school leader,” said Superintendent W. Burke Royster. “She encouraged the support and involvement of the Bethel community while improving student achievement and providing many opportunities for professional development for her staff. Her leadership efforts and accomplishments at the school level were instrumental in her selection as one of our Assistant Superintendents responsible for School Leadership.”
Under Mrs. Byrd’s leadership, Bethel Elementary consistently received a rating of Excellent on the School Report Card, and the school received the prestigious Palmetto’s Finest Award in 2011.
She is a graduate of Clemson University and has 26 years of experience in South Carolina schools.
In October, Byrd will travel to Washington, D.C. for two days of activities planned to honor and bring well-deserved recognition to the elementary- and middle-level educators chosen by each state, the District of Columbia, and private and overseas schools.
Criteria for selection of the principals require that the honorees are active principals of schools where programs are designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students and where there are firmly established community ties with parents and local business organizations.