Mrs. Ridge eared a Masters plus 45 hours with emphasis on Early Childhood and Elementary Education  from Lander University and The Citadel; a Master of Education, Administration and Supervision from Clemson University; and a BS in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Lander University. 

Before coming to B-L Primary in 2004, Mrs. Ridge served as assistant principal at Saluda Primary/Elementary School, a teacher at SaludaElementary School; and a teacher at GilbertElementary School.  During her teaching career, Mrs. Ridge was named Saluda County Teacher of the Year and Saluda Elementary Teacher of the Year.  She has also written and been awarded numerous grants during her career as both a teacher and assistant principal.

Mrs. Ridge and her husband Mike have three children Michael, Nolan and Kendall and make their home in Batesburg-Leesville.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to serve as principal at Batesburg-Leesville Elementary School for the 2011-12 school year and look forward to working with its faculty, staff and students,” cited Mrs. Ridge.  “Coming from the Primary School where most of the Elementary School’s students attended, will give me the opportunity to watch these children continue on their educational journey.  I am committed to making Batesburg-LeesvilleElementary School a center of learning for all of our students and a school where parents and faculty work together in the best interest of our children.  I encourage parents and students to become more involved in the educational process and work with the B-L Elementary faculty and staff to make our school one of the best in the state.”

Mrs. Ridge will assume her new job on July 1, 2011.