Administration Team
Dr. Whitney Prowell, Principal
School:
803-691-4045
Welcome to Sandlapper Elementary School! As principal, I am thrilled to bring my passion for education and my unwavering commitment to student success to this incredible school community. At Sandlapper, we have high expectations for joyful learning, creative thinking, positive leadership, and limitless possibilities—and I am honored to lead a team that lives out this mission each day.
Throughout my career as an educator and administrator, I’ve been dedicated to improving academic outcomes and building a school culture where every child feels seen, valued, and inspired to achieve. I truly believe every student has the potential to thrive, and it’s our responsibility to nurture that potential with care, consistency, and high expectations.
I’m excited to partner with our students, families, and staff as we work together to create a joyful and empowering learning environment. The future is bright at Sandlapper—and the best is yet to come!
Takeela Bates, Assistant Principal
School:
803.691.4045
I have always believed that education is about so much more than academics. It’s about changing lives with a focus on the whole child. Every decision I make is guided by one simple question: What is best for children? I am passionate about building relationships, serving others with humility, and creating school communities where students feel safe, valued, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.
I have dedicated nearly 20 years to public education, serving as a classroom teacher, mentor teacher, lead teacher, and assistant principal. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Winthrop University, a Master of Science in Elementary Language and Literacy from Walden University, a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University, and a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. I have Montessori and Gifted and Talented certifications. My educational journey has strengthened my belief that exceptional schools are built through continuous learning, collaboration, and a shared commitment to student success.
As an educational leader, I strive to lead with integrity, compassion, and a servant's heart. I am committed to supporting teachers, partnering with families, and fostering a culture where both students and educators can thrive. Whether I am coaching teachers, leading school improvement efforts, or celebrating student successes, my greatest joy comes from helping others discover their strengths and reach their potential. I believe that when we invest in children, empower educators, and work together as a community, we create opportunities that last a lifetime. I am excited to begin my 3rd year at Sandlapper Elementary!
Trenton Murner, Assistant Principal
School:
803-699-2750
I’m incredibly excited to introduce myself as the new Assistant Principal at Sandlapper Elementary. After spending the past several years at Dent Middle School as the 6th grade Assistant Principal and serving in education for the past 20 years, I’m honored to join such a vibrant and caring school community.
I began my journey in education with a degree in Elementary Education, followed by teaching 6th and 7th grade Social Studies. During that time, I earned my Master’s in Educational Leadership degree from Oklahoma State University. I have served as a teacher or principal at all levels. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing students, educators, and families, and I’ve always believed in the power of relationships to make a lasting impact on student success.
My goal at Sandlapper is to support our students, staff, and families in every way I can. I’m passionate about creating an environment where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
I look forward to getting to know each of you and working together to make this school year a great one. Thank you for the warm welcome — I’m proud to be a Sandlapper Star!