Richland School District Two announced Linard McCloud will lead Bethel-Hanberry Elementary School.
Linard McCloud brings a wealth of experience to his new role as principal of Bethel-Hanberry Elementary School. His 11-year career in education began as a music teacher at CDA Public Charter School, where he honed his instructional skills. McCloud’s leadership potential emerged during his tenure at Dutch Fork High School, where he served as an administrative assistant principal before advancing to assistant principal in 2019. Since 2022, he has successfully led Oak Pointe Elementary School as principal, further developing his administrative expertise. This diverse background in both arts education and school leadership equips McCloud to guide Bethel-Hanberry’s academic vision and foster a vibrant learning community.
“It is a blessing and a privilege to have the opportunity to lead a school with such a rich history of ensuring that all students have access to highquality teaching and learning,” McCloud said. “I am committed to working with the entire Bethel-Hanberry community as we continue to nurture learners to lead and succeed.”
McCloud’s educational background includes an Ed.S. in Educational Administration from the University of South Carolina (2023), two M.Ed.
degrees in Educational Administration (Charleston Southern University, 2018) and Curriculum & Instruction (Concordia University-Portland, 2015), and a B.M. in Music Performance from the University of South Carolina (2012).
McCloud is married to Ashley McCloud, a Richland Two teacher, and they have three children. He enjoys spending time with his family, working out, watching movies, and reading. He is also a licensed minister.
McCloud succeeds Shannon Holland who is retiring.
