Administration

Welcome to Barnwell Elementary, Home of the Mighty Mustangs!

Dear Families,

Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year! As I begin my 34th year in education, I’m filled with excitement and gratitude. With degrees in Elementary Education and Educational Administration, I’ve worked at many levels, but being part of the Barnwell Elementary community has been the highlight of my career.

At BES, we’re focused on building strong relationships and creating a positive, empowering school culture where every student can thrive. Though I don’t have children of my own, I love spending time with my nieces, nephews, and two cats. In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, fishing, and being with loved ones.

Please feel free to reach out anytime at kgooding@bcsd.net or 803-709-4127. I’m looking forward to a fantastic year with our Mighty Mustangs!

 

I am excited to extend my warmest greetings to all of you as we embark on an exciting new academic year at Barnwell Elementary.  I am honored to serve as the Assistant Principal here. I reside in the heart of Neeses, South Carolina, and find joy in various pursuits, such as playing piano, cooking, and swimming.

As I begin this 16th year of my educational journey, I am thrilled to share my passion for nurturing young minds and fostering a vibrant learning environment. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of teaching students from pre-K through 4th grade, providing me with a comprehensive understanding of the unique needs and challenges of each developmental stage.

Beyond the classroom, I actively contribute to our community as the music director at our home church in Neeses, where I am committed to uplifting spirits through the power of music.

My educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Claflin University, where I honed my foundational teaching skills. Additionally, I pursued my Master's degree in Educational Leadership and a Master's in Science degree in Learning and Technology from Western Governors University, allowing me to stay at the forefront of modern teaching methodologies and innovative educational practices.

As we set forth on this new academic journey together, I am enthusiastic about collaborating with each one of you to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where every child can thrive. Your dedication and support are instrumental in shaping the futures of our young learners, and I wholeheartedly welcome your ideas, insights, and active participation.

Please know that my door is always open for discussions, feedback, and collaboration. Together, we can create a brighter and more promising future for our students, empowering them to achieve greatness and make a positive impact on our community and beyond.

I eagerly anticipate an enriching and successful academic year filled with growth, learning, and joy. Thank you for being an essential part of our school family, and I look forward to building strong partnerships with all our stakeholders.