Administration

 

Dear Hyatt Park Families,

It is truly an honor to serve as the Interim Principal of Hyatt Park Elementary School in Richland School District One. As I begin this new chapter in my leadership journey, I want to take an opportunity to introduce myself and share a little about the experiences, beliefs, and passions that have shaped me as an educator and school leader. I have dedicated more than two decades to education, with a career centered around teaching, leading, building relationships, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of students, families, and educators.

I began my career in the classroom and have had the privilege of teaching kindergarten, first grade, third grade, and Early Intervention in grades second-fifth across several school districts and states. I taught first grade in Florence School District One, kindergarten in Beaufort County School District, and second through fifth grade EIP in Monroe County School District in Forsyth, Georgia. I later returned to South Carolina and joined Richland School District One, where I taught kindergarten for three years. Prior to moving into school leadership, I taught kindergarten and third grade in Richland School District Two. While at Jackson Creek Elementary, I was honored to be named the 2019–2020 Teacher of the Year.

My years in the classroom deeply shaped who I am as a leader and strengthened my belief that relationships, high expectations, meaningful instruction, and a genuine love for children are essential to a thriving school community. I eventually transitioned into administration and had the privilege of serving as Assistant Principal here at Hyatt Park Elementary before stepping into the principalship for the 2026–2027 school year.

My educational background includes an Education Specialist degree in Leadership and Educational Administration from Capella University, a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Integrating Teaching Through the Arts from Lesley University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education from Francis Marion University. I also hold South Carolina certification in elementary school administration and participated in Richland One’s R1 Ready leadership development program.

As a school leader, my leadership is grounded in visibility, collaboration, academic excellence, student voice, professional growth, and a strong sense of belonging. I am passionate about helping students reach their highest level of academic achievement, engaging teachers in meaningful professional learning, strengthening instructional practices, and creating opportunities for our students to grow as both learners and leaders.

At the heart of my leadership is a commitment to ensuring that every child and adult who walks through the doors of Hyatt Park knows:

You are seen. You are valued. You are loved. You belong.

I believe every scholar can learn. I believe every scholar has a purpose. And I believe every child deserves the opportunity to grow, laugh, take academic risks, and build upon their learning each and every day. I am especially committed to instilling a strong sense of self-worth in our students and creating a school environment where children feel safe, supported, challenged, and inspired.

Outside of my role as an educator, I am the proud mother of four children: Ajaliyah, Autumn, Ashton and Aiden. I enjoy being a sports mom and spending time with my family. I also enjoy crafting, shopping, especially for sneakers, and traveling. Family is incredibly important to me, and I bring that same spirit of care, connection, and commitment to the Hyatt Park family.

I am truly grateful to be a part of Hyatt Park and consider it both an honor and a responsibility to lead a school community that I love. I remain committed to continuing to build strong relationships with our students, staff, families, and community partners as we work collaboratively to ensure that every Cougar has the opportunity to thrive.

One of my favorite quotes by B.B. King is: “The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” That belief continues to guide my work as an educator and leader. I believe all of our scholars have a purpose, and it is our responsibility as educators to recognize their potential, nurture it, encourage them, and motivate them to become the very best versions of themselves.

I am excited about all that we will accomplish together and look forward to continuing to create memorable experiences for our students while moving Hyatt Park forward academically, socially, and as a community. Thank you for trusting us with your children and for being an important part of our Cougar Family. Together, we will continue creating a Hyatt Park where everyone knows they belong.

With Cougar Pride,

Ashanda Merritt
Principal