District 5 Names New Principals at Harbison West, Leaphart

Lexington-Richland School District Five has named new principals for two of its elementary schools. 

Veteran administrator Arthur Newton, Jr. has been selected as the new principal of Harbison West Elementary. He is currently a principal at Bridge Creek Elementary and will replace Dr. Barbara Brockhard, who is retiring. Leaphart Assistant Principal Kelly Brown will take over as principal of the school. She replaces Dr. Gerald Gary, who will become the new principal at Dutch Fork Middle. 

District Superintendent Dr. Stephen Hefner said, “We are looking forward to having Mr. Newton and Ms. Brown in these important roles. Both bring a wealth of skills and knowledge to help their respective schools as District Five continues to push for excellence and quality education for all students.” 

Newton has a Bachelor of Arts degree from South Carolina State University and two master’s degrees, including one in educational administration from the University of South Carolina. During his tenure at Bridge Creek Elementary, the school has received several awards including Palmetto Gold Awards for the 2012-2013 school year in both categories, General Performance and Closing the Achievement Gap. 

Newton said, “Harbison West is an outstanding school, and I’m looking forward to building strong relationships with the students and parents. I’m also excited to work with the staff to continue the high standards already in place at the school … I’m just extremely excited about this opportunity.” 

Kelly Brown has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of South Carolina and is expected to complete her doctorate in Educational Leadership in December 2013. She worked as the Assistant Principal at Leaphart Elementary School this year, and has also been an assistant administrator at a high school. 

“I am truly honored and excited about my new leadership role at Leaphart Elementary School and look forward to working with students, teachers, parents and community members to continue the tradition of excellence at Leaphart and District Five,” Brown said. 

From Lexington-Richland 5's Office of Public Information