Summer break is almost over and Pierce County’s students will begin the new school year soon.
The 2026-2027 school term will officially begin Wednesday, August 5.
Approximately 3,440 students are expected to start classes on opening day. The enrollment increased by approximately 15 students from the first day of school last year, but those numbers will likely change by opening day.
Dara Bennett, superintendent of Pierce County Schools, says she and school system staff members are excited to begin another school year.
“A new school year represents a fresh start for our students and staff. Our collective focus this year is simple yet profound: Excellence is The Standard! Together, we will continue to build safe and supportive environments where excellencetrulyisthestandard! Weare excited to welcome students back on August 5.”
Numerous personnel changes have taken place over the last year.
Three schools will have new faces in administration.
Dr. Brandi Todd will begin serving her first full year as principal at Pierce County High School and Dr. Cole Walsh will begin his first full year as principal at Midway Elementary. Dr. Todd succeeded Kelly Murray who left to become superintendent in Charlton County. Dr. Walsh then succeeded Dr. Todd at Midway Elementary.
Theresa Alonso then succeeded Walsh as assistant principal at Midway Elementary.
Kyler Allen will also be the new assistant principal at Pierce County Middle School. He suceeds Lauren Hyers in the role.
The system has 38 new teachers and support staff who have been hired for the school year. New staff members include listed by school/location include: Ashlee Barrow, Randall Cribb, Hayden Harris, Kylee Herndon, Blair Hubbard, Macey Martin, Jennifer Morris, Taylor Owens, Parker Smith and Hannah Undercuffler all at Blackshear Elementary; Danielle Brooker, Angela Burney, Rebecca Davis, Emma Day, LeAnn Griner, Tiffany Romero, Jerrian Waters (49 percent), John Williford and Zoey Yarbrough at Midway Elementary; Susan Altman, Garrett Anderson, Jane Barrett, Edurne Clough, Tina Cravey (49 percent), Katherine Dollar, Sutton Kemp, Patricia Perry, Roderick Ringold, John Smith, Briana Turner and Gina Walker at Pierce County High School; Heather Allen, Cari Boeck, Pennie Stovall, Ava Tison and Nicole Van at the middle school and Rebekah Long and Kylie Womack at Patterson Elementary.
A few enhanced facility upgrades have already begun and will be completed later this school year including construction projects now underway at both Patterson Elementary and Pierce County Middle Schools.
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