WEST COLUMBIA, SC -- Nicholas "Nick" Gillcrese has been named the new principal at Riverbank Elementary with the 2024-2025 school year. The Board of Trustees approved his hiring at its April 18 meeting.
Mr. Gillcrese is currently an assistant principal in Richland Two at Lake Carolina Elementary School’s Lower Campus, a position he has held since 2020. Prior to that, he was an assistant principal for three years at Sandlapper Elementary School, also in Richland Two. Mr. Gillcrese started his education career in Lexington-Richland 5 as a third-grade teacher, spending two years at Ballentine Elementary then nine years at Oak Pointe Elementary, where he was named Teacher of the Year in 2014-2015. He later served for two years as administrative assistant principal at Oak Pointe.
Mr. Gillcrese received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Benedict College, where he was a member of the inaugural Call-Me-Mister program through Clemson University. He has a master’s degree and M.Ed. in administration and supervision, both from Southern Wesleyan University.
Mr. Gillcrese shared: “I was drawn to Lexington Two and Riverbank Elementary because of the innovative and immersive learning experiences that provide students the opportunity to explore their passions and talents, while also preparing them to thrive in a global society. As Riverbank’s principal, I am committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment where students, teachers, and staff feel valued, respected, and celebrated. I look forward to leveraging our diversity by engaging our families and community at large to ensure the success and well-being of every student at Riverbank Elementary.”
Lexington Two Superintendent Dr. Brenda Hafner said Mr. Gillcrese is “a passionate leader who is excited to make Riverbank Elementary School his home,” adding: “We look forward to him continuing the trajectory of improvement for our students’ academic success and well-being.”
Mr. Gillcrese and his wife, Alexandria, have four daughters. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, and traveling.
Mr. Gillcrese will succeed longtime Principal David Sims, who is retiring. Mr. Gillcrese will begin his new role July 1.