Welcome to Pelion Elementary School, home of the National Championship Archery Team and where our Panthers have “P.R.I.D.E.!”  Thank you for taking the time to visit our website.  I am excited and honored to enter my first year as principal of this great school.

Originally from a small town in Horry County, South Carolina, I attended Clemson University many years ago. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and my Master of Education in Special Education during those wonderful years in the hills of Tigertown. I have also taken classes toward my Doctorate of Education in School Improvement from the University of West Georgia. I currently live in Irmo, SC, and I am the proud momma of Briana who is a teacher in Atlanta, GA, and soon-to-be newlywed, and Javian who is a graduate student at a Division II college in WV and about to embark on his last semester as a college football player.

I started my career in education during my senior year in high school when I was one of the last groups to drive buses as high school students. After attending college, I landed my first teaching position as a special educator in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. During my time as a classroom teacher, I thoroughly enjoyed teaching in special education, general education, gifted and talented/honors, and multilingual learner classes. My teaching experiences range from kindergarten through 8th grade, and I cherish every memory along with the relationships built with students, staff, and community members. There is no doubt in my mind that THIS YEAR with the Pelion Elementary School Panthers will be the greatest thus far.

We are looking forward to more incredible accomplishments during the 2024-2025 school year.  Pelion Elementary School will remain committed to excellence and building a community of life-long learners as we focus on “Winning the Day” every single day! It’s going to be a phenomenal year! If I can be of assistance in any way, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Ms. Francina Gerald