Compton returning to LDHS as principal

• District 55 makes other moves at Waterloo, GCO

Lewis Compton, who taught 19 years and began his career at Laurens District High School, is heading back there as the school’s principal.

“It’s amazing, the circle of life that has brought me back to Laurens District High School,” Compton said. “I appreciate (District 55 Superintendent) Dr. Ameca Thomas having faith in me and giving me this opportunity.”

Compton, a graduate of Thornwell, began his teaching career at LDHS in 1991 as a permanent substitute teacher and remained there as a teacher and coach until being named principal at Laurens Middle School in 2020.

District 55 announced the move after a called meeting Monday that included Board of Trustees approval of two other district principals swapping posts.

Kim Penland, current principal at Gray Court-Owings School, is relocating to Waterloo Elementary School as principal. The current principal of Waterloo Elementary School, Farrell Thomas, will relocate to Gray Court-Owings School as principal.

“I am confident that each of these leaders is aligned to the roles in which they will serve for the upcoming school year,” Ameca Thomas. “Interviews are on-going as we continue to fill vacancies in the district.”

No replacement for Compton at Laurens Middle School has been named by district officials.

Compton will replace current LDHS Principal Tina Faulkner, who is set to take over as director of Laurens Preparatory Academy.

“Dr. Faulkner has laid the groundwork for me to come in and keep things going,” Compton said. “I’m not coming in to fix things; I’m coming in to grow what is already there under her leadership.”

He also said leaving Laurens Middle School was “bittersweet” decision.

“I’ve learned and grown working with a wonderful staff at Laurens Middle School,” he said.