Charleston County School District Appoints Permanent Leader of CCSD Elementary Schools

Charleston County School District Appoints Permanent Leader of CCSD Elementary Schools

Following a significant appointment announcement, the Charleston County School District (CCSD) has settled on a permanent leader for its Elementary Learning Community. Dr. Jennifer Swearingen, who has been performing the duties of the Interim Associate Superintendent since 2022, has been ushered into the role permanently.

A Career at CCSD: The Journey of Dr. Jennifer Swearingen

Swearingen, a dedicated servant of CCSD for nearly three decades, is no stranger within the district. Her journey began in 1997 at Ladson Elementary School, where she served as a teacher for over seven years. Following her tenure at Ladson, she joined the CCSD administration, serving as an assistant principal at Jennie Moore Elementary School.

Driven by an unwavering commitment to finest practice and a “students first” philosophy, she swiftly ascended the ranks, earning recognition for her leadership and passion as an educator. She subsequently served as the principal of Oakland Elementary School in West Ashley for eight years before joining the central staff to lead the Elementary Learning Community.

Qualifications and Achievements

In addition to years of hands-on experience, Swearingen brings formidable academic qualifications to her role. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the College of Charleston, she pursued a master’s degree in Elementary Education Administration from The Citadel. Later, she acquired a Specialist in Educational Leadership degree from The Citadel and capped it off with a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration (CD-12) from the University of South Carolina. She was named Teacher of the Year by Ladson Elementary School for 2003-2004 and a 2014 CCSD Star Principal.

The Way Forward for CCSD

Under Swearingen’s stewardship, CCSD anticipates a steady and fruitful growth in its Elementary Learning Community. Her ability to foster a positive learning environment for students and create a supportive culture among the staff, alongside her talent for identifying and nurturing potential, will continue to contribute to the district’s success.

“As a fellow veteran educator in the district, I have had the privilege and honor of working with and alongside Dr. Swearingen in her various roles over the years,” said Superintendent Anita Huggins. “Her work ethic is unmatched and her commitment to doing what is best for children is clearly visible in her leadership style and daily work. We are excited to welcome her permanently to this role and look forward to her continued leadership of our elementary schools.”

New Era of Educational Excellence

The confirmation of Dr. Jennifer Swearingen as the permanent leader of CCSD’s Elementary Learning Community marks the advent of a new era in the district. Harnessing her vast experience and dedication to this role, she is anticipated to usher in an era of educational excellence and sustained growth for the district. As a dedicated servant with an unmatched passion for education, there are high hopes from Dr. Swearingen in this pivotal role.