The York School District One Board of Trustees recently approved the following administrative appointments for the 2026-2027 school year:
Nicole Thompson Named Principal of White Hill Middle School
Mrs. Nicole Thompson will take on the role of Principal at White Hill Middle School, effective July 1, 2026A strategic and student-centered educational leader, she brings more than 20 years of experience across elementary, middle and high school settings.
Mrs. Thompson most recently led Griggs Road Elementary in Clover School District to three consecutive “Excellent” ratings on the South Carolina School Report Card while maintaining chronic absenteeism below 7%.
A former South Carolina Middle Level Assistant Principal of the Year, Thompson is known for her strong instructional leadership, commitment to safe and inclusive school environments, and dedication to student growth and staff collaboration.
She holds a Master’s in Administration & Supervision and multiple state leadership certifications and brings a clear instructional vision, a collaborative leadership style, and a steadfast commitment to student success. She looks forward to partnering with students, staff, families, and the broader York community to build a thriving school where every learner is supported and challenged to excel.
“Opening a new school is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and Mrs. Thompson is the right leader to build it from the ground up,” said Superintendent Branham. “She understands that culture, expectations, and instruction must be intentionally designed from day one. White Hill Middle School will open with a clear purpose, a strong identity, and a sharp focus on student learning because of her leadership.”
Lindsey Lawson Named Principal of Jefferson Elementary School
Mrs. Lindsey Lawson will take on the role of Principal at Jefferson Elementary School, effective July 1, 2026.
With more than 15 years of experience in education and a strong record of instructional leadership, she is well prepared and equipped to lead the school community.
Mrs. Lawson has served as Assistant Principal at Harold C. Johnson Elementary since 2024 and previously held assistant principal roles at Hunter Street Elementary, York One Virtual Program, and York One Academy.
Throughout her career, Lawson has led schoolwide initiatives focused on student achievement, behavior support, and personalized learning, while also overseeing testing, attendance, and daily school operations. “Mrs. Lawson is exactly the kind of leader we need in this moment,” said Superintendent Branham. “She brings a clear focus on teaching and learning, a deep understanding of school operations, and the ability to build a culture where both students and staff thrive.”
Prior to entering administration, Lawson was a secondary mathematics teacher and was recognized as Teacher of the Year at York One Academy. She holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Winthrop University, a Master of Education in Divergent Learning from Columbia College, and a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Mathematics Education from Kent State University.
Her experience and commitment to student success make her well-positioned to lead Jefferson Elementary forward.
D’Angelo Edwards Named Assistant Principal of York Intermediate School
Mr. D’Angelo Edwards will take on the role of Assistant Principal at York Intermediate School, effective July 1, 2026.
He has served as Assistant Principal at York One Academy since 2025 and previously worked as a mathematics teacher within the program.
Prior to joining York School District One, Edwards held principal and assistant principal roles within the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice School District, where he led school operations, supervised staff, and implemented programs focused on student achievement, school climate, and career and technical education.
Edwards also served as an assistant principal in Chester County School District and began his career as a classroom teacher, earning both school- and district-level Teacher of the Year honors. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering positive learning environments, supporting staff development, and improving outcomes for all students. He holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Winthrop University and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Johnson C. Smith University, along with certifications in both teaching and educational leadership.
“D’Angelo is a leader who knows how to build structure, create clarity, and support students who need us the most,” said Superintendent Branham. “His experience across alternative education and traditional school settings brings valuable perspective to York Intermediate. As assistant principal, he will work alongside the leadership team to support teachers, reinforce strong systems, and ensure every student is set up for success.”
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