On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, the School District of Pickens County Board of Trustees approved the Superintendent’s recommendation to name Mrs. Tish Goode as Director of Elementary Literacy.

Mrs. Goode has served as the district’s Director of K–5 Instruction during the past year. In this adjusted role, she will continue much of her existing work while placing a more focused emphasis on leading the district’s literacy efforts in the elementary grades.

As Director of Elementary Literacy, Mrs. Goode will guide districtwide literacy initiatives, support schools in implementing effective instructional practices, and collaborate with teachers, coaches, and administrators to strengthen early reading and language development.

“Mrs. Goode brings deep experience in elementary education and a strong understanding of literacy instruction,” said Associate Superintendent of Academics Dr. Shannon Sharkey. “This role allows her to focus more directly on literacy at the youngest levels, which remains a priority for the district.”

Mrs. Goode has more than 21 years of experience in education, including service as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, principal, and district leader. She previously served as Principal of Central Academy of the Arts, where she was named the 2019 PSAE Arts Administrator of the Year for South Carolina. Her background includes extensive work in curriculum, instruction, and student engagement at the elementary level.

She holds a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from Anderson University, a Master of Education from Southern Wesleyan University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Clemson University.