KCSD announces Markeita Barber as its 2026 Principal of the Year
KCSD announces Markeita Barber as its 2026 Principal of the Year
Webmaster Putnam
In a surprise announcement at Pine Tree Hill Elementary, Superintendent Dr. Harrison Goodwin and Chief Academic Officer Dan Matthews announced Pine Tree Hill Elementary Principal Markeita Barber the 2026 Kershaw County School District Principal of the Year.
Superintendent Dr. Harrison Goodwin and Pine Tree Hill Elementary Principal Markeita Barber
The presentation recognized Mrs. Barber’s intentional work in building a culture of high expectations and contagious joy.
"Mrs. Barber has a remarkable gift for balancing high academic standards with a genuine, visible love for her students," said Superintendent Dr. Harrison Goodwin. "She doesn’t just manage a school, she has intentionally built a culture where students, staff, and families feel a true sense of belonging. Her leadership is the reason Pine Tree Hill is such a vibrant place to learn."
A 2004 graduate of Camden High School, Barber is proud to be a product of the Kershaw County School District. Her journey in education spans 18 years of dedicated service, beginning in the classroom as a kindergarten and third-grade teacher.
Barber’s leadership path has included serving as an Assistant Administrator at Blaney Elementary and an Assistant Principal in Lexington-Richland District 5 before returning home to KCSD to lead Bethune Elementary and eventually Pine Tree Hill Elementary, where she has served for the past five years.
Since taking the helm at Pine Tree Hill, Mrs. Barber has spearheaded a powerful Leader in Me implementation, empowering students to take ownership of their learning and leadership. Her nominations highlighted her "forward-thinking, evidence-aligned practices," leading to rigorous instruction, data-driven student growth and authentic community connections.
“Being named Kershaw County Principal of the Year is truly humbling. I am deeply grateful to serve in a district that helped rear me, shape me, and pour into my life in so many meaningful ways. Kershaw County School District is more than a workplace to me — it is home,” says Pine Tree Hill Elementary Principal Markeita Barber.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of my incredible parents, students, and staff. I am honored to lead and work hand in hand with the best each day. My Bullpups are dear to my heart, and this honor truly belongs to all of us,” says Barber.