Hello Riverhawks!

I am so honored to be able to serve as the first principal of Highland Springs Middle School and to be entrusted to build a student-centered school of excellence during this upcoming school year. I am passionate about our community and the success of ALL students in our Aiken County Schools. My number one priority is that each and every student at Highland Springs Middle School be welcomed to our school with open arms in an environment that recognizes and celebrates the unique talent and brilliance within every individual and builds upon our students’ strengths to prepare them for high school and beyond.

As a graduate of North Augusta High School, this community and its successes are close to my heart. After graduation, I attended the College of Charleston, majored in English and have been a teacher ever since! I have been an educator for the past 23 years as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal. I reside in North Augusta with my husband of 19 years, Ashley, and my son, Colin, who is in his senior year at NAHS. The opportunity to open the newest school in our district and build a team of student-centered and enthusiastic educators at Highland Springs has been a true honor.       

At Highland Springs Middle School our goals are simple: build a culture of excellence and growth for our students; value each and every person in our community; offer a first-class educational experience (because our students deserve nothing less). If you have any questions, concerns, or input please contact me at pday@acpsd.net or feel free to stop by and see me. I look forward to working together!

Phone: 803-641-2428
Email: PDay@acpsd.net

I am so excited to be a part of the Riverhawk family.  My goal is to foster a supportive and enriching learning environment for our students.  By collaborating with teachers, parents, and staff, I am committed to promoting a safe, inclusive, and inspiring school culture where every student can thrive both academically and socially. 

During my 10 years as an educator in Aiken County, I taught Science and STEM at all middle school levels, participated on Science, STEM, and Computer Science Curriculum Teams, coached cheerleading, and was awarded Teacher of the Year for 2019-2020 school year.  I earned my Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of South Carolina. 

Email: MCooper2@acpsd.net

Students, click here to fill out a statement

I am excited to help bring out the best in our students, staff, and families. I feel it is important for everyone to be a part of this unique opportunity in creating their own legacy at HSMS.

I’m a graduate of Bowling Green State University in Ohio (slightly warmer down here) and currently live in Barnwell with my wife Sarah and 3 sons. We enjoy traveling and being active members of the community.

While in Aiken County, I've been a member of the Social Studies Master Teacher Series and part of the Aspiring Administrators Academy. I have taught all sorts of social studies classes throughout my 14 years in the classroom.

Email: JLehman@acpsd.net

Students, click here to fill out a statement