Celebrating Brian Agnew’s retirement and welcoming Alexandra Rodis as principal at Drayton Hall Elementary

April 8, 2025

Charleston County School District (CCSD) announces a leadership transition at Drayton Hall Elementary School as leaders and staff celebrate the retirement of Principal Brian Agnew and welcome Alexandra Rodis as the school’s new principal, effective July 1, 2025.

Agnew announced his retirement, which will be at the conclusion of the 2024–2025 school year after many years of dedicated service to CCSD and the Drayton Hall community. His leadership has left a lasting impact on students, staff, and families, and CCSD leaders extend their deepest gratitude for his commitment to excellence and student success.

Alexandra Rodis Principal of Drayton Hall Elementary School

Stepping into the principal role at Drayton Hall will be Alexandra Rodis, a results-driven educational leader who currently serves as Assistant Principal at James

Island Elementary School. Rodis has a strong track record of driving academic improvement, strengthening instructional practices, and fostering student-centered environments. Under her leadership, James Island Elementary saw its school report card rating rise from “Average” to “Good” and student progress on SC READY assessments improve from “Below Average” to “Good” in just one year.

Rodis brings a wealth of experience to Drayton Hall, including roles as a lead teacher, classroom teacher, and behavior and instructional support leader. She has led Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), guided curriculum planning, restructured master schedules to maximize instructional time, and served as the LEA representative for more than 50 IEP meetings—ensuring special education compliance and student support at all levels.

A two-time graduate of The Citadel and Teachers College at Columbia University, Rodis holds certifications in elementary administration, elementary education, and special education. Her hands-on leadership style and passion for collaboration make her a strong match for the Drayton Hall community.

“We are delighted to welcome Ms. Rodis to Drayton Hall Elementary,” said Superintendent Anita Huggins. “She has a proven ability to raise student achievement and build strong relationships with families and staff. We are excited to see the school continue to thrive under her leadership.”

Please join us in thanking Brian Agnew for his years of service and in warmly welcoming Alexandra Rodis as the new principal of Drayton Hall Elementary School.

 

About the Charleston County School District

Charleston County School District (CCSD) is a nationally accredited school district committed to providing equitable and quality educational opportunities for all its students. CCSD is the second-largest school system in South Carolina and represents a unique blend of urban, suburban, and rural schools spanning 1,300 square miles along the coast. CCSD serves approximately 50,000 students in 88 schools and specialized programs.

CCSD offers a diverse portfolio of educational options and specialized programs delivered to the students of CCSD through neighborhood, magnet, IB (international baccalaureate), Montessori, and charter schools and programs. Rich educational opportunities for students include programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); music and other creative and performing arts; career and technical preparation programs; military; dual credit; and many more.