South Carolina State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver visited North Middle/High School for a moment of celebration and recognition, awarding Principal Debra Norman the prestigious title of 2025 South Carolina Principal of Excellence on behalf of the South Carolina Department of Education. As part of the honor, Principal Norman received a $25,000 award recognizing her exceptional leadership and dedication to student success.

The surprise announcement was met with thunderous applause and cheers from Orangeburg County School District Board members, OCSD district staff, North Middle/High students, faculty, staff, and members of Principal Norman’s immediate family. The celebration reflected the pride of a school and community that has experienced remarkable growth under her leadership, transforming North Middle/High School's rating from below average to excellent.

Superintendent Weaver shared that one of her favorite aspects of serving as state superintendent is visiting schools across South Carolina to recognize educators who are producing real results for students. “You truly are game changers for academic excellence. Principal Norman is a beloved and outstanding leader, and the work happening here deserves to be celebrated,” said Superintendent Weaver.

Principal Norman, retired in 2014, and later returned in 2022 to continue leading the school with a renewed commitment to student success, strong academic performance, and community pride. The moment was made even more special as her father and daughter stood by her side, while her mother joined via FaceTime to witness the surprise live. “I am truly blown away,” Principal Norman expressed. “Thank you so much for this incredible honor.”

Superintendent Weaver also recognized key partners who help make it possible to celebrate excellence in education across the state, including the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Dominion Energy Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Cynthia Bennett, and Dominion Energy President Keller Kissam. Addressing the students in attendance, Kissam shared a personal message about the power and importance of rural communities in South Carolina. “I grew up in a small town called Creston in Calhoun County with only 33 people,” Kissam said. “Students, I want you to know that rural areas of South Carolina are the backbone of this state.”

Orangeburg County School District Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster also praised Principal Norman and the entire North/High School community, while thanking Superintendent Weaver for recognizing the district’s progress and potential. “We are incredibly proud of Principal Norman and the entire Eagle family,” said Dr. Foster. “Thank you, Superintendent Ellen Weaver, for seeing the great things happening in our schools. Orangeburg County School District has some of the best students and employees in the state, and we will continue to strive for greatness.”

The recognition of Principal Debra Norman stands as a powerful testament to the impact of dedicated leadership, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to student success in Orangeburg County School District.

For additional information, please contact Taylor R. Johnson, Communications and Multi-Media Specialist, at taylor.johnson@ocsdsc.org or 839-253-2070.