The South Carolina Department of Education honored Walton with the statewide award and a $25,000 prize for raising student achievement and school culture at the Berkeley County school.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Education has named Don Walton, principal of Macedonia Middle School, the recipient of the 2026 Principal of Excellence Award, according to the department.
The award, given in partnership with Dominion Energy and South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce, recognizes principals who show strong leadership in raising student achievement, building school culture and sustaining school improvement, the department said. It comes with a $25,000 prize. The award was first given in 2024.
Walton has worked as an educator for more than 30 years, including the last 12 as head of Macedonia Middle School, according to the department. Under his leadership, the school’s overall state report card rating rose from Good to Excellent in 2026, an 11-point gain. The department said student progress at the school increased by more than seven percent, reading achievement rose five percentage points, and math achievement climbed more than 29 percent over the past two years.
The department credited Walton with establishing a clear assessment and curriculum strategy and regular classroom observations, along with building a school culture based on defined expectations and consistent feedback for teachers.
State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver said, “Mr. Walton has maintained a relentless focus on students and worked alongside his team to build a culture where excellence isn’t just encouraged, it’s expected.”
South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce Vice President of Commerce Councils and Philanthropy Cynthia Bennett said, “Principal Walton’s unwavering dedication to removing barriers and creating a strong school culture centered on continuous improvement for all students exemplifies the leadership that makes a lasting difference.”
Dominion Energy South Carolina President Keller Kissam said, “Dominion Energy is proud to honor Mr. Don Walton’s contributions to education and the impact his leadership is making in the lives of the students and families of Macedonia Middle School.”
Berkeley County School District Superintendent Anthony Dixon said, “Earning an Excellent rating on the South Carolina School Report Card is a testament to that leadership and the collective work of his school community. This recognition is incredibly well deserved.”
Based on a release from S.C. Dept. of Education.
