The School District of Pickens County announces Mrs. Heather Touchberry as Director of Innovative Services, effective July 1, 2026. Mrs. Touchberry currently serves as Principal of McKissick Academy of Science and Technology (MAST) and will transition into the district-level role at the conclusion of the 2025–26 school year.

In her new role, Mrs. Touchberry will focus on two priorities: strengthening mathematics achievement and expanding innovative options for families. The position centers on designing compelling school models that attract, engage, and retain families within

the district. Her responsibilities will also include leading program evaluation efforts, supporting school-based instructional leadership, and advancing innovative practices aligned to Innovate’28, the district’s long-term strategic plan.

Mrs. Touchberry has served as Principal of MAST since December of 2017. Under her leadership, the school has earned National recognition from Magnet Schools of America, Excellent ratings on the South Carolina School Report Card, COGNIA STEM Certification, and was named a 2025 Palmetto’s Finest Semi-Finalist. These recognitions placed MAST among a select group of elementary schools in South Carolina and just over 400 schools worldwide recognized for excellence in STEM education.

She began her career in education in 2008 as an elementary classroom teacher in the Columbia area before joining the School District of Pickens County at Chastain Road Elementary School (now Liberty Primary). In 2014, she was named Assistant Principal at Six Mile Elementary School and later became Principal of MAST, where she has built a strong record of instructional leadership, innovation, and continuous improvement.

“Heather has demonstrated what innovative leadership looks like at the school level,” said Superintendent Dr. Danny Merck. “Her work at MAST reflects a deep commitment to instructional excellence, STEM education, and continuous improvement. She is well-positioned to help us strengthen math readiness and expand innovative opportunities for students across the district.”

Mrs. Touchberry holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Winthrop University, a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from Anderson University, and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree from Clemson University. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership at Clemson University.

Mrs. Touchberry will officially begin her role as Director of Innovative Services in July 2026.