Contributed by Richland School
District One

Richland School District One congratulates Hand Middle School principal Marisa Vickers on her selection as the South Carolina Middle School Principal of the Year by the SC Association of School Administrators (SCASA). She will be recognized by the association at special events on January 21 and June 19. Vickers will compete for national honors as Middle School Principal of the Year.

With more than 25 years in education, Vickers credits her success to the hard work and dedication of her students, teachers, and community supporters. “This is really an award for Hand Middle School. This award recognizes the collective energy of the school that rests on the enthusiasm and commitment of our teachers and students. At Hand, we’re dedicated to building a strong bond between our staff, students, parents, and the community.

For example, every staff member at Hand is a mentor to at least one child in the school. Our teachers do home visits. We bring the arts into all of our children’s lives. Our teachers are making extra efforts in the classroom to help children who may not be reaching their potential. Our community support has been outstanding. We work closely with neighborhood churches that generously provide meals for our events, as well as mentors and tutors for our children.”

Vickers began as an assistant principal at Hand in 1994. In 2000, she was named principal.

Among the honors won by Hand during her tenure are the following: Middle School Award of Excellence for two consecutive years; Flagship Schools of Promise; Red Carpet Award; Exemplary Writing Award; Arts and Basic Curriculum School; Palmetto’s Finest and Blue Ribbon School.

SCASA is a professional organization for school leaders in SC, with a membership of more than 2,900.