Our Leadership
Our Leadership
“We’re really doing a good job of building people.” – Superintendent Cheryl Turner
Cheryl Turner
Title: Former Superintendent
Joined: March 2001
Previous Roles: Principal, School Director
Why Sugar Creek: I identify with and am deeply committed to the mission of Sugar Creek. I know that a solid educational foundation along with life skills can put a student on the trajectory to change their economic situation. When that happens, the foundation is set to improve the circumstances of future generations. I want to be a part of setting that process in motion for as many families as possible.
Education: BA – University of Maryland, MAED – Seton Hall University, ABD Ed.D – Gardner-Webb University
Impactful Experience: Raising a child with mental health challenges has been the most impactful non-classroom experience for me. I learned about empathy, mental health, and how to access essential resources. These lessons now inform my work as an administrator, where I champion SEL support integrated into our academic program. At SCCS, we employ social workers, counselors, and character education teachers because this work is crucial to our mission.
Celeste Sundo
Title: Superintendent
Joined: 1999
Previous Roles: Founding 2nd Grade Teacher, 3rd Grade Teacher, Curriculum Facilitator, Director of Professional Development & Licensure, Deputy Superintendent
Why Sugar Creek:I chose Sugar Creek because an advertisement in the Charlotte Observer in 1999 caught my eye. After negative experiences in two other school districts, I gave SCCS a chance. It was the best decision I ever made. Being part of this school from the beginning means a lot to me.
Education: BSEd – Slippery Rock University, MEd – University of Cincinnati, ABD Ed.D – Gardner-Webb University
Impactful Experience: Leading outdoor learning experiences during high school solidified my decision to become a teacher. Guiding fifth graders on hikes and teaching environmental lessons sparked my love for teaching.
Melissa Gaddy
Title: Chief of Academic Affairs
Joined: July 2016
Previous Roles: ELA Teacher, Lead Teacher, Instructional Coach, Assistant Director, Curriculum Facilitator
Why Sugar Creek:The mission of Sugar Creek aligns with why I became a teacher. Since 2007, I have been committed to supporting my community through education. Sugar Creek felt like a home filled with like-minded educators dedicated to improving the lives of disenfranchised populations through quality education.
Education: BA – English Education
Impactful Experience:Developing teachers and leaders has been very impactful for me. However, my real passion remains in the classroom. I always make it a point to teach, regardless of my position, because the real work happens there.
Richard Russell
Title: Elementary School Principal
Joined: August 2002
Previous Roles: Sub, ISS Teacher, Instructional Assistant, Coach, Teacher, Lead, Curriculum Facilitator
Why Sugar Creek:I choose Sugar Creek because I want all students to complete the mission of eradicating generational poverty through education.
Education: BA – Elementary Education
Impactful Experience: My most impactful experience has been serving as Elementary Principal, where I have had the honor of supporting SCCS stakeholders for the past seven years. Go Wildcats!
Brandy Morrison
Title: Middle School Principal
Joined: 2023
Previous Roles: History Teacher, Dean, Lead, Coordinator, Assistant Principal
Why Sugar Creek:The mission and vision of our superintendent and the commitment of the staff and students to create a quality learning environment connect me to SCCS. I believe in empowering kids to become productive, confident individuals ready to change the world.
Education: Associate – Culinary Arts, BS – Business Studies, M.Ed – Educational Leadership
Impactful Experience:A Spanish immersion simulation transformed my educational career. The experience helped me understand the challenges non-English-speaking students face and taught me to ensure every student feels valued and understood in my practice.
Jamaal Young
Title: High School Principal
Joined: 2006
Previous Roles: History Teacher, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal
Why Sugar Creek: The mission of Sugar Creek aligns with my personal values. I believe all students can learn and that education can change the trajectory of their lives. SCCS provides a safe and secure environment that promotes academic excellence.
Education: BA – History, MA – Curriculum and Instruction, MS – Educational Leadership
Impactful Experience:My most impactful experience was co-founding a nonprofit during COVID-19 to feed the homeless and provide for families during Thanksgiving. This work outside the classroom has been incredibly fulfilling.
Marcella Elijah
Title: Director of Exceptional Children
Joined: 2023
Previous Roles: Special Education Teacher, School Administrator
Why Sugar Creek: The mission, vision of our superintendent, and the commitment of the staff and students to create a quality learning environment connect me to SCCS.
Education: Bachelor – Special Education, MA – School Administration, Ed.S – Curriculum Supervision
Impactful Experience:My ability to collaborate with stakeholders who love children has been the most impactful experience outside the classroom. I am honored to serve at SCCS.
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