Veteran CCSD district leader Dr. Jamie McCarthy named associate superintendent for the elementary learning community
May 12, 2026
Charleston County School District (CCSD) announced that Dr. Jamie McCarthy has been named Associate Superintendent for the Elementary Learning Community effective July 1, 2026.
Dr. McCarthy brings nearly two decades of experience in Charleston County schools and has served students and families across the district as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and district leader. Most recently, she served as Executive Director for the Elementary Learning Community, where she supervised and coached 11 elementary principals and helped lead districtwide work focused on instructional improvement and student achievement.
“Dr. McCarthy understands our schools, our principals, and our communities because she has spent her career serving students right here in Charleston County,” said Superintendent Anita Huggins. “She is a steady, student-centered leader who has earned the respect of teachers, principals, and families through her work and relationships. Jamie knows the importance of supporting strong elementary schools because that foundation impacts everything that follows for our students. I am excited to have her continue helping lead this important work across CCSD.”
Before serving at the district level, Dr. McCarthy was principal of Lambs Elementary School, where she led efforts to strengthen school culture, implement restorative practices, and improve instructional systems through data-driven planning and teacher collaboration. Under her leadership, the school expanded professional learning communities, strengthened intervention supports for students, and focused heavily on building positive relationships with families and staff.
She also served as assistant principal at Ashley River Creative Arts Elementary School and Pepperhill Elementary School, where she supported instructional improvement initiatives, student support systems, and school operations. Earlier in her career, Dr. McCarthy taught multiple grade levels at Hunley Park Elementary School and worked as an intervention teacher supporting students academically across grades three through five.
In addition to her school leadership experience, Dr. McCarthy has contributed to several district and state leadership initiatives, including serving on the CCSD Reactivation Task Force, mentoring new principals, and participating in leadership development programs through the South Carolina Association of School Administrators and the Center for Creative Leadership. She was also recognized as an Honorary Commander with the United States Air Force.
Dr. McCarthy earned her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Clemson University in 2024. She also holds a Specialist in Education degree with Superintendent Certification and a Master of Education degree from The Citadel.
CCSD also wishes to thank Dr. Jennifer Swearingen for her many years of dedicated service to the district. Throughout her career, she has made a lasting impact on students, educators, and school communities across Charleston County. The district wishes her all the best in her retirement.
