Administrative Team

Dr. Maranda Hayward began her career with the Richland Two family in 2008 as a special education resource teacher at Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary and previously served as an assistant principal at Forest Lake Elementary School.

Dr. Hayward feels deeply honored to step into the role of principal at Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary. "Returning to the school where my educational journey began is a special experience. I am grateful to rejoin such a supportive community and look forward to working with parents, staff, and faculty to create an environment where every student can thrive and achieve their full potential,” Dr. Hayward shared.

Dr. Hayward holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology, a Master of Arts in Teaching (Special Education), a Master of Education in Education Administration, and a Ph.D. in Special Education from the University of South Carolina. She is a national board-certified teacher, a 2023-2024 SCASA CEEL Silver Strand Aspiring Principal, and a graduate of the 2023-2024 Richland Two Assistant Principal Institute.

In her spare time, Dr. Hayward enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with loved ones.

Mr. Brandon Foote brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for education. Previously, Mr. Foote served as the assistant administrator for the Center of Achievement and the Center for Inquiry, where he demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and supporting students, staff, and families. 

Mr. Foote has a Masters of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Education in Education Administration from the University of South Carolina.

In his spare time, Mr. Foote is a proud husband and father and enjoys board games, basketball, and cooking.

Mrs. Mikkia Johnson, a Barnwell, SC native, comes to you with  22 years of experience in education ranging from teaching 1st grade through 8th grade, and coaching teachers as an Instructional Coach.  Education is Mrs. Johnson’s passion; she is eager to assist with leading and working collaboratively with the faculty,  staff, students, families, and the Lonnie B. Nelson community.

Mrs. Johnson holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Elementary Education from Benedict College, Master of Education degree in Divergent Learners from Columbia College, and an Educational Specialist degree in Administration from Columbia College. Mrs. Johnson is currently completing her Doctor of Education degree at South Carolina State University.

Mrs. Johnson is a proud wife and mother to five children.  In her spare time, she enjoys traveling to and from sporting events and cheer competitions.  Spending time with her family is a favorite pastime.