WEST COLUMBIA, SC -- A familiar face will be returning to Cayce Elementary School as its new principal with the 2024-2025 school year.
Elaine Lundy, who has been with Lexington Two for more than 20 years, will be the new principal at Cayce Elementary. Her hiring was recommended by Superintendent Dr. Brenda Hafner and approved by the Board of Trustees at its April 18 meeting.
Ms. Lundy served as an assistant principal at Cayce Elementary for six years, from 2016-2022, before moving to her current position of principal at New Bridge Academy, the district’s alternative program. She started her education career in 1999 as a teacher at Saluda Trail Middle School in Rock Hill School District 3, moving to Lexington School District Two in 2001. She served as a special education teacher at Brookland-Cayce High School, Busbee Middle School (now Busbee Creative Arts Academy), and Three Rivers Midlands Facility. She later was an ABA coordinator and transition specialist for the district and director of Lexington Two’s Camp GG for more than 12 years.
Ms. Lundy has another special connection with the Cayce Elementary neighborhood area, having attended the former Claude A. Taylor Elementary School, Northside Middle School, and graduating from Brookland-Cayce High School. She received a bachelor’s degree from Winthrop University and master’s degrees from Grand Canyon University and Columbia College. Her own daughter now attends Winthrop University and is studying to be a teacher.
Ms. Lundy shared: “Being drawn to Cayce Elementary stems from a passion for education, a desire to make a positive impact on young minds, and the opportunity to lead and support a dedicated team of educators. I look forward to educating the whole child, implementing innovative teaching strategies, and collaborating with staff, students, and parents to ensure academic success and personal growth for all.”
Dr. Brenda Hafner said Ms. Lundy’s passion for Cayce Elementary is “palpable,” adding: “She is a proven leader who is excited to return to Cayce and provide opportunities for students’ success and a sense of family.”
Ms. Lundy will begin her new role on July 1. She succeeds Andrew Drozdak, who is moving to a neighboring district to teach and coach in 2024-2025.