Lexington 2 Superintendent Dr. Angela Cooper, West Columbia schools coming under new, but familiar, leadership
Dr. Angela Cooper was announced in March as the Lexington Two School District’s Superintendent for the 2026-2027 school year.
While Cooper is new to the position of superintendent, she had been serving as Interim Superintendent since February, she has long been a familiar face in Lexington Two. She has spent 19 years of her career in Lexington Two and most recently served as Chief Human Resource and Organizational Development Officer.
Cooper was recognized as one of the best. She was selected last fall as the national Personnel Administrator of the Year by the American Association of School Personnel Administrators, as well as South Carolina School Administrator of the Year by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators.
In April, Cooper was introduced at the Cayce-West Columbia Chamber Breakfast at Stone River in West Columbia by Lexington Two Board Chairman Kevin Key, of West Columbia. He said Cooper was everyone’s first choice when there was a need for a new superintendent. . Where she
Cooper also said it is an honor to be chosen to lead our local schools.
Cooper also said: “Lexington Two is a very special community to me. I have spent so much of my career here because this district has always felt like more than a place of work. It is a community built on relationships, resilience, pride, and a deep commitment to children and families. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving alongside exceptional educators, support staff, leaders, families, business partners, and community members who truly believe in the importance of public education.”
Cooper also had kind words for the communities, and the legacy of Lexington Two schools.
“What I appreciate most about Lexington Two is that it is a community with history, heart, and identity. Our schools are woven into the fabric of West Columbia, Cayce, Springdale, Pine Ridge, South Congaree, and our surrounding areas.
Generations of families have been connected to our schools, and there is a real sense of loyalty and pride in what Lexington Two has meant — and continues to mean — to this community.”
Cooper also said she has confidence in those who make up Lexington Two.
“My decision to remain in Lexington Two for so many years has been rooted in that sense of purpose. I believe in this district. I believe in our students. I believe in the people who serve them every day.
I also believe that Lexington Two is positioned to do exceptional things as we continue to strengthen academic opportunities, expand career pathways, celebrate the arts, support our employees, and build even stronger partnerships across the community.”
Cooper also said she plans to serve with integrity
“As I prepare to step into the role of Superintendent, I do so with great humility and deep gratitude. This appointment is not simply a professional milestone for me; it is a responsibility I take very seriously.
“I understand the trust that comes with this role, and I am committed to leading in a way that honors the history of Lexington Two while also helping move us forward with energy, unity, and a clear focus on students.
“The local culture of Lexington Two is one of the district’s greatest strengths. It truly does take a village, and in Lexington Two, that village includes our schools, families, municipalities, faith-based organizations, businesses, retirees, volunteers, and community partners.
“My hope is to continue building on that spirit of shared responsibility so that every student knows they are seen, supported, and prepared for the future.”
Schools are very important to West Columbia and all of the surrounding communities. Cooper understands the importance of local investment in those schools, and she plans to lead a district that everyone will be proud of.
There are also Charter Schools serving West Columbia:
Gray Collegiate Academy (GCA) serves students in a safe, small, family-centered setting who seek the opportunity and challenge of a rigorous curriculum, high academic standards, and outstanding athletics while earning up to two years of college credit while in high school.
East Point Academy serves 5k through 8th grade in West Columbia, SC. We are globally-minded and provide a rich and rigorous education to the students we serve. It also offers a 4K program as well as an after school program.