Ï㽶ӰÊÓ

John Murphy is beginning his tenth year as Principal of North Augusta High School and his twenty-fourth year in education. John was raised in Edgefield, South Carolina and attended Clemson University. John earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry from Clemson University.

John’s educational career began as a science teacher, football, and baseball coach at Strom Thurmond High School in 2000. In 2002, John moved to Aiken High School to become a science teacher and football coach. John earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Augusta State University in 2005.

In 2006, John entered administration as the Assistant Principal at Ridge-Spring-Monetta Elementary-Middle School. In 2007, John was promoted to Assistant Principal at North Augusta High School and served for two years. John was named the Principal of Paul Knox Middle School in 2009 and served for four years. In 2013, John was named Principal of North Augusta High School.

During John’s tenure at North Augusta High School, he has led the design and construction of our new school on its existing site, which occurred in four phases over nine years, the design and installation of the synthetic turf football and soccer field in Jacket Stadium, and the design and construction of Jacket Arena. Jacket Arena is the home of Jacket Regiment, Singing Jackets, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and a state-of-the-art strength training facility. The remaining phases of construction include the addition of baseball and softball fields on campus and the renovation of the performing arts auditorium. It is his hope to host baseball and softball games on campus in 2024.

In addition to the construction of the new high school, John is especially proud of the many academic, fine arts, and athletic accomplishments at North Augusta High School during his tenure: maintaining graduating rates of at least 90%, end of course exam passage rates, advanced placement exam passing scores, superior ratings in band and chorus, and numerous athletic state and region championships.

John and his wife are proud of their two children at Clemson, who are also graduates of North Augusta High School, and their very special paraplegic shih tzu. John enjoys playing golf and attending Clemson sporting events.

Mr. Casey Crane began his career in education in 2000 and has served as a Special Education Teacher, a Read 180 instructor, Learning Strategies instructor, and Aiken iNNOVATE educator. Originally from West Virginia, Mr. Crane, his wife, and two daughters moved to Aiken County in 2019. His academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, a Master’s degree in Athletic Coaching Education, and a Multi-Categorical Special Education Certificate, all from West Virginia University. He also holds Principal, Curriculum Instructor, and Superintendent certifications from Salem International University. He is now serving his second term as Assistant Principal at North Augusta High School.

Mr. Harris joined the administrative team after having served as a computer science and information technology instructor at North Augusta High for thirteen years. He is a proud graduate of North Augusta High and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management from Augusta University as well as a Master of Arts degree in Executive Leadership and Supervision from Gardner Webb University. He and his Wife have two amazing daughters and enjoy spending time at Jekyll Island and being in or near the ocean. Mr. Harris will serve 12th grade students, oversee weekend SAT administration, PSAT administration, ACT administration, and student parking.

Mr. Richard Jackson has recently joined the administrative team after having served as a Special Education teacher for 12 years in Aiken County Schools.  He is a proud graduate of North Augusta High and holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Master of Arts in Education Management, and Master of Arts in Administration and Supervision.  He and his wife have two children and enjoy spending time at Disney World.  Mr. Jackson serves 9th grade students, handles bus discipline and oversees content recovery. Mr. Jackson continues to look forward to serving and supporting students here at North Augusta High School.  GO JACKETS!

Mrs. Kristin Risher is beginning her 5^th year as an Assistant Principal at North Augusta High School.  Mrs. Risher is a graduate of Aiken County Schools and was fortunate to teach at her high school Alma Mater, Silver Bluff, as Director of Bands for 11 years before transitioning to her current position.  She holds a Bachelor of Music degree with an emphasis in Instrumental Music Education from the University of South Carolina (Go Gamecocks!) and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Augusta University.  Mrs. Risher resides in North Augusta with her husband, Shawn, and two daughters.  She is excited to continue serving the students, families, and community of North Augusta.  Go Jackets!

Mr. Smith has 19 years in education.  He spent 10 years in the classroom as a special education teacher and 9 years in administration.  He has received the following degrees: Associate in Arts, Spartanburg Methodist College; Bachelor of Science, South Carolina State University; Master of Education, Southern Wesleyan University; Master of Education, Cambridge College; Specialist in Educational Administration, Cambridge College; Leadership Add-on certification, Augusta University and an earned Doctorate of Divinity from Deus Divinity School. 

Mr. Smith is a Senior Pastor and has a genuine heart for people and to influence the lives of all youth.  He is a product of Aiken County Public Schools and currently resides in Aiken County. He is the husband of Stephanie Smith and the father of three wonderful children Perry Jr., Peris and P’erra Smith.