Dr. Merriman Nichols

Chief Academic Officer for Curriculum, Instruction, & Assessment

The Darlington County School District (DCSD) announced in July of 2024 that Dr. Merriman Nichols, an education leader with extensive K-12 experience, has been chosen as the district's new Chief Academic Officer. The Chief Academic Officer oversees the district's curriculum, instruction, assessment, and accountability.  Nichols brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success to the district.   Her responsibility will be to triangulate curriculum, instruction, & assessments so that each child meets or exceeds grade-level standards to achieve the expectations of the profile of the SC graduate.  She will also provide resources, support, & training for teachers, staff, and students as they develop individual growth plans that allow them to use technology appropriately and effectively as life-long learners.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Merriman Nichols to the Darlington County School District," said DCSD Superintendent Dr. Tim Newman. "Her broad educational experiences, academic credentials, and understanding of system-wide school improvement will be invaluable as we continue to strive for academic excellence and provide our students with the best possible educational opportunities."

Nichols began her career as a high school social studies teacher. She served as an assistant principal in both an elementary and a middle school before becoming an elementary school principal. She also taught Adult Education. Nichols then shifted her efforts to the state level, where she worked with the South Carolina Department of Education as an Implementation Support Coordinator and a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Coordinator. Most recently, she has served as the Director of Intervention and Enrichment for the Kershaw County School District, where she was instrumental in developing programs that significantly enhanced student achievement.

Nichols holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Studies Education from Western Carolina University, a Master's degree in School Administration from Gardner-Webb University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University.