Richland School District Two announces new Summit Parkway Middle School principal
April 23, 2025
Richland School District Two announced that Mannietea Freeman has been appointed as the next principal of Summit Parkway Middle School, effective July 1, 2025.
With more than 26 years of experience in education, Ms. Freeman is recognized as an innovative instructional leader, a strategic planner, and a champion for building inclusive school communities. She brings a proven record of elevating academic achievement and fostering a culture of excellence.
“I believe in nurturing the boundless potential within every student, said Ms. Freeman. “Middle school is a transformative time, and it is my mission to ensure that every child is seen not for where they come from, but for where they can go. By creating a culture of high expectations, meaningful relationships, and unwavering support, we empower students to rise above their challenges and soar confidently into their futures.”
Ms. Freeman currently serves as assistant principal at Summit Parkway Middle School, a role she has held since 2020. In this capacity, she has spearheaded the expansion of academic offerings, including career exploration and performing arts classes, broadening opportunities for students to excel. She has created and led the grade recovery program to support student achievement and promote academic success. Additionally, she has provided strategic leadership for several schoolwide initiatives, including AVID implementation, oversight of the Special Education and Science departments, teacher evaluation and mentoring, and the development of the master schedule to ensure equitable access and instructional effectiveness. She also plays a vital role in leadership development by mentoring new assistant principals and curriculum effectiveness specialists.
“We are excited for this new role for Ms. Freeman,” said Superintendent Dr. Kim D. Moore. “Her dedication to academic excellence, her vision for student growth, and her ability to build strong, supportive relationships make her an outstanding choice to lead Summit Parkway.”
Ms. Freeman began her career as a classroom teacher in Texas and joined Richland Two as a math teacher in 2003. She has since served in various leadership roles at district schools. She holds a Master of Science degree in Educational Administration from the University of South Carolina and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Florida A&M University.
Throughout her career, Ms. Freeman has been recognized for her leadership and service. She earned National Board Certification and is a former E.L. Wright Middle School Teacher of the Year. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the South Carolina Association of School Administrators, South Carolina Education Association, South Carolina Alliance of Black School Educators and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
Outside of school, Ms. Freeman enjoys spending time with her family, baking, shopping, and traveling. She is married to Retired U.S. Army First Sergeant Willie Freeman and they share two children, Gabrielle and Zachary.
Richland Two looks forward to the positive impact Ms. Freeman will have as she leads Summit Parkway Middle School into its next chapter of excellence.
Summit Parkway Middle School is one of only two schools in South Carolina to receive the Schools to Watch designation by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform this year. This recognition is awarded to schools that excel in strong academics, responsiveness to young adolescents’ unique needs, and a dedication to providing all students with equal access to a high-quality education.
