Carolina Forest, SC, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Andrena Baker, principal of Ten Oaks Elementary School, has been recognized as the Administrator of the Month. With a vibrant approach to leadership, Baker fosters a positive environment for the school’s 1,067 students. Opened in August 2025, Ten Oaks is dedicated to preparing students for future success. Many staff members have transferred from other schools to create a nurturing atmosphere, encapsulated by their slogan ‘and then some.’ The school mascot, a Red Fox named ‘Jimmy,’ honors Baker’s late father, reflecting her commitment to education and community.
Carolina Forest, SC – Andrena Baker, the principal of Ten Oaks Elementary School, has recently been honored as the Administrator of the Month. Ten Oaks, which opened its doors in August 2025, currently serves 1,067 students, ranging from four years old to fifth grade, making it one of two new elementary schools within the Carolina Forest attendance zone.
Baker has brought a vibrant energy to the school, welcoming students each morning with smiles and dances. With 16 years of experience in education, she began her career as a classroom teacher at Kingston Elementary. Over the years, she progressed through various positions including teaching at Myrtle Beach Intermediate and assistant principal roles at Pee Dee Elementary and Myrtle Beach Middle School. Baker holds degrees in elementary education, special education, and supervision, giving her a well-rounded foundation to lead her current school.
As a principal, Baker emphasizes the importance of understanding all students and preparing them for the future beyond elementary education. She leads a dedicated staff of over 120 members, many of whom transferred from three other schools to facilitate the management of overcrowding in the local area. The staff has adopted the slogan “and then some,” reflecting their shared commitment to fostering a positive learning environment for their students.
Baker transitioned into her role as principal in January, allowing her sufficient time to establish procedures and expectations for the new school year. Her leadership style has infused the school with a positive energy that resonates throughout its community.
In a poignant personal connection, Baker’s father, Jimmy Washington, who was a former Horry County School Board member and held education in high regard, passed away just one day before Ten Oaks Elementary School opened. In his honor, the students chose to name the school mascot—a Red Fox—“Jimmy.” This mascot visits the school weekly, symbolizing Baker’s deep-rooted values in education and community.
Overall, Andrena Baker’s dedication to her students and staff, alongside her rich background in education, positions Ten Oaks Elementary School as a nurturing and enthusiastic environment for learning.
FAQ
Who is Andrena Baker?
Andrena Baker is the principal of Ten Oaks Elementary School, which opened in August 2025.
What recent recognition did Baker receive?
Baker was recently recognized as the Administrator of the Month.
What is the current student enrollment at Ten Oaks Elementary School?
The school currently has 1,067 students ranging from four years old to fifth grade.
What is the slogan adopted by the Ten Oaks staff?
The slogan adopted by the staff is “and then some,” reflecting their commitment to creating a positive environment.
What is the mascot of Ten Oaks Elementary School?
Ten Oaks Elementary School’s mascot is a Red Fox named “Jimmy,” chosen by the students in honor of Baker’s late father.
Key Features of Ten Oaks Elementary School
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Principal | Andrena Baker |
| Opening Date | August 2025 |
| Student Enrollment | 1,067 students |
| Slogan | “and then some” |
| School Mascot | Red Fox named “Jimmy” |
| Staff Size | Over 120 members |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Horry County Schools Opens New Elementary Schools
JoLynn Prochaska Named Horry County’s Teacher of the Year
Horry County Schools Move to eLearning Amid Snowstorm
Horry County Schools Construction Continues Despite Winter Storm
Changes and Improvements in Horry County Schools for 2024
Horry County Schools Implements Major Changes for 2024
New Elementary Schools Coming to Carolina Forest
New Elementary Schools Set to Alleviate Overcrowding in Carolina Forest
Exciting News for Carolina Forest Families: New Schools Set to Open Soon!
Myrtle Beach Honors Ashley Arthur as October’s Administrator of the Month
Additional Resources
- WBTW: Horry County Superintendent and Principal Sound Alarm on Youth Vaping Trend
- My Horry News: Two New Horry County Elementary School Principals Named
- WMBF News: Lawsuits Against Horry County Schools Dismissed
- WPDE: Horry County School District Attendance Policy Changes
- Post and Courier: HCS Teachers Demand End of Plexiglass Installation
- Wikipedia: Education in South Carolina
- Google Search: Youth Vaping Statistics
- Google Scholar: Educational Policies in South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education Overview
- Google News: Horry County Schools
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
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