Meet Our Principal

Dr. Meredith Welch

Dr. Welch brings a wealth of experience and passion for education to Rudolph Gordon School. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Anderson University, along with a Master of Education Degree in Administration and Supervision. Furthering her expertise, she obtained an Education Specialist and Doctorate of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University. With 14 years in education as a classroom teacher and administrator, she is dedicated to fostering a positive and effective learning environment.

Residing in the wonderful community of Fountain Inn, our principal, her husband, and their three children, are active members of the local community. The family is deeply involved in extracurricular activities, especially through the Fountain Inn Parks and Recreation Department. Dr. Welch welcomes the opportunity to meet and connect with students and their families both at school and in the community.

Dr. Welch wholeheartedly believes that ALL means ALL. Every student deserves a high-quality education in learning environments that are student-centered, engaging, and safe. Her commitment and the commitment of all staff at Rudolph Gordon School is to ensure that every student has their individual academic, social, and emotional needs met through comprehensive school programs and opportunities. 

 

Meet Our Assistant Principals

Mr. Dan Anderson, Elementary Assistant Principal 

As a lifelong public servant, Mr. Anderson brings a wealth of experience and passion for education to Rudolph Gordon School. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Kinesiology from Eastern Illinois University, along with a Master of Education Degree in Administration and Supervision from Concordia University Chicago. Mr. Anderson is a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, where he served as a Technical Applications Specialist. With 16 years of service in public education as a classroom teacher and administrator, he is dedicated to fostering a positive and effective learning environment.

Originally from the Chicago area, Mr. Anderson, his wife, and their three children now reside within the Rudolph Gordon School community. Currently, two of the Anderson family children are proud to be Gordon Gators. Mr. Anderson is excited for the continued opportunity to build meaningful relationships with students and their families both at school and in the community 

Mr. Anderson firmly believes that all students deserve a high-quality education, and learning environments that are student-centered, engaging, and safe. His continued commitment, along with the dedication of all staff at Rudolph Gordon School, is to ensure that every student has their individual academic, social, and emotional needs met during their time as a Rudolph Gordon Gator!

Mrs. Faith Garvin, Elementary Assistant Principal 

Mrs. Garvin believes that all children matter and she models servant leadership on a daily basis. Mrs. Garvin attended South Carolina State University and received a degree in Elementary Education in 2006. While in her second year of teaching, Mrs. Garvin decided to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching from Southern Wesleyan University. In 2015, she completed the School Leadership program from Furman University with an Educational Specialist degree. Mrs. Garvin prides herself on having diverse experiences and learning opportunities as both support the growth of a compassionate leader.

Mrs. Garvin was raised in the Lowcountry of Hampton, SC. She has been married to her husband, Turran for 15 years. Both she and her husband hold leadership positions which allow them to serve within their community and lead with the end in mind. They have two amazing sons, Kingslee and Asher, who are students of Rudolph Gordon. Mrs. Garvin's favorite things to do are going for long walks/runs, listening and dancing to music across the decades, playing boardgames with her family, and watching movies. Mrs. Garvin's favorite quote is "Either you run the day, or the day runs you!" This year, she aims to lead each day with positivity and support.

Mrs. Meri Heather Acton, Middle Level Assistant Principal

Mrs. Acton brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for education to Rudolph Gordon School. Her journey in the field of education began with a strong academic foundation, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from the University of South Carolina. Furthering her expertise, she obtained a Master of Education Degree in Administration and Supervision from Grand Canyon University. With 16 years of experience as a middle school math teacher at Hillcrest Middle School, Mrs. Acton has developed a robust understanding of student needs and effective teaching strategies. This year marks her fifth year as an administrator, where she continues to build on her extensive teaching background to create a positive and effective learning environment. Before embarking on her teaching career, Mrs. Acton spent a decade in the business sector, which enriched her skill set and provided valuable insights into organizational dynamics and leadership. 

Outside of her professional life, Mrs. Acton is an ardent lover of animals. She resides in Gray Court on a 40-acre farm, which she shares with an array of beloved animals, including horses, dogs, cats, and chickens. Her home is a testament to her love for nature and animals. She is married and has two grown daughters, and is a proud grandmother of three grandchildren. Mrs. Acton enjoys riding horses, spending quality time with her family, and maintaining their farm. 

Mrs. Acton is deeply committed to fostering an environment where students can thrive and become successful members of society. She believes in the potential of every student and is dedicated to teaching respect and positive interactions as cornerstones of a conducive learning atmosphere. She collaborates closely with students' support systems, including parents, teachers, and counselors, to promote not only academic excellence but also social development. By promoting a consistent and positive environment, she ensures that every student has the opportunity to learn and grow. 

Mrs. Lauren Nagelkirk, Middle Level Assistant Principal

Mrs. Nagelkirk is the current 6th-grade Assistant Principal at Rudolph Gordon School, bringing in 15 years of educational experience including teaching, instructional support, and administration. She proudly holds a Bachelor of Science in English Secondary Education from Anderson University and two Master's degrees: one in Education, also from Anderson University, and another in Educational Leadership from the University of South Carolina. Mrs. Nagelkirk previously taught English at Hillcrest Middle School and Hillcrest High School and also served as an Instructional Coach for Greenville County Schools before stepping into her role as an administrator. 

Mrs. Nagelkirk is happily married to her husband, Jared, and they have two wonderful children, Darcy and Ryker. Mrs. Nagelkirk loves spending quality time with her family and friends, diving into good books, shopping, playing golf, and traveling. Her family is always on the go, whether it's cheering at the soccer field or making unforgettable memories fishing! 

With a heart for education, Mrs. Nagelkirk is committed to meeting students where they are and helping them soar to their full potential. She is thrilled to be part of the Gator community and is eager to support students as they grow and learn. 

Mrs. Ashley Stewart, Middle Level Assistant Principal 

Mrs. Stewart is excited to join the Rudolph Gordon School community, bringing over 14 years of experience in education and administration. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Clemson University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Reinhardt University, and an Educational Specialist degree in Leadership and Administration from Clemson University. Her experience in various educational roles, including serving as an assistant principal and teaching both elementary and middle school levels, has equipped her with a deep understanding of student and teacher needs.

Residing in Simpsonville with her family, Mrs. Stewart enjoys spending her time with her family outdoors, whether playing at the lake or tinkering in the garden. Her love for the outdoors reflects her commitment to growth.

Mrs. Stewart is passionate about creating a student-centered learning environment that prioritizes safety and inclusivity. She believes that every student deserves an engaging and supportive space where they can thrive. Dedicated to fostering a learning community of respect and positivity, Mrs. Stewart is committed to ensuring that all students feel valued and supported at Rudolph Gordon School.