BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Berkeley County School District has selected veteran educator Dr. Marion Baird as the first principal of Bee Tree Elementary School, which is scheduled to open its doors to students in August 2026.
District leaders say Baird brings more than 25 years of experience in education and school leadership to the role. He currently serves as principal of Carolyn Lewis School and previously held district-level leadership positions as Executive Director of Elementary Schools and Executive Director of Academics and Innovation.
Superintendent Dr. Anthony Dixon said Baird’s background in launching and leading new schools, along with his focus on inclusive learning environments, made him the right choice to guide Bee Tree Elementary from the ground up.
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“Dr. Baird’s track record in creating positive, inclusive school environments coupled with his experience opening and assuming leadership of new schools will undoubtedly set the tone for Bee Tree Elementary’s success,” Dixon said. “He is committed to leading the development of a school culture where every student is supported and challenged to meet their full potential.”
Baird began his career as a middle school social studies teacher in Newark, New Jersey, before moving to Dorchester District Two, where he taught elementary reading and gifted education. He later transitioned into leadership roles, serving as an assistant principal, principal, and assistant director of elementary schools.
He joined Berkeley County School District in August 2021, first serving as Executive Director of Academics and Innovation, then Executive Director of Elementary Schools. In November 2024, he became principal of Carolyn Lewis School.
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Baird holds a Doctor of Education degree from Nova Southeastern University, a master’s degree from The Citadel, and a bachelor’s degree from Charleston Southern University.
In a statement, Baird said he is honored to help build the foundation for the district’s newest elementary school.
“I am deeply honored to help lay the foundation for Bee Tree Elementary,” Baird said. “With excitement, vision, and purpose, I pledge to support our students, faculty, staff, families, and community as we build a school where every child is known, valued, and encouraged.”
Baird will remain at Carolyn Lewis School through the end of the current school year while also assisting with final planning efforts for Bee Tree Elementary’s opening next fall.
He added that collaboration and high expectations will be central to the new school’s mission.
“By working collaboratively through listening, learning, and holding high expectations, we will ensure that each student discovers their strengths and reaches their fullest potential,” Baird said. “I am excited to begin this journey with you and to watch the bright futures that will grow from this place.”
Bee Tree Elementary is one of Berkeley County’s newest schools designed to meet the district’s growing student population and expand educational opportunities for families across the region.
