Northwoods
Middle School
Administration
Bentli Lewis, Principal
Bentli Lewis is the proud principal of Northwoods Middle School, where she is committed to building a school community in which every student, staff member, and family knows they belong, are valued, and have the opportunity to thrive.
With more than 14 years in public education, Ms. Lewis has served as a high school English teacher, graduation specialist, assistant principal, and principal. She believes the foundation of every successful school is built on authentic relationships, high expectations, and a culture where people are empowered to grow, lead, and realize their full potential.
Ms. Lewis is passionate about creating schools where students are seen for who they are and inspired to become who they can be. She believes every child deserves adults who believe in them without conditions and that when students experience belonging, purpose, and encouragement, they are empowered to achieve more than they ever imagined. She is equally passionate about investing in teachers, partnering with families, and cultivating meaningful relationships throughout the community because lasting success is built together.
Throughout her leadership career, the schools she has served have experienced significant growth in school culture, student achievement, and organizational excellence, earning state and national recognition for their transformation. Most notably, schools under her leadership have received honors including designation as a National AMLE School to Watch and recognition as Jostens Renaissance Schools of Distinction.
In 2026, Ms. Lewis was honored as the South Carolina Middle Level Principal of the Year in recognition of her commitment to student success, school culture, and educational leadership. She was also named the 2025 Jostens Renaissance National Educator of the Year for her work in creating schools where relationships, recognition, and belonging drive both academic achievement and personal growth.
She believes that leadership is not about building great schools—it is about building people. When people know they are valued, empowered, and challenged to grow, great schools naturally follow.
Onekki Shaw
Assistant Principal, 6th Grade
Mrs. Shaw is proud to serve as the 6th Grade Assistant Principal at Northwoods Middle School. Having been part of the Northwoods family for more than a decade, she has built strong relationships with students, families, and staff while supporting student growth and success.
Mrs. Shaw believes that strong partnerships between schools and families create the foundation for student achievement. She is passionate about helping every child grow academically, socially, and emotionally while fostering a positive and supportive school experience.
She looks forward to building meaningful relationships, celebrating student success, and helping every 6th grade Nighthawk thrive.
Jimmy Gildea
Assistant Principal, 7th Grade
Mr. Gildea serves as the 7th Grade Assistant Principal at Northwoods Middle School. Before joining the administrative team, he worked as a Business Education teacher and Tier I MTSS Specialist, where he developed a passion for supporting student achievement and school improvement.
Mr. Gildea is committed to creating opportunities for students, building strong relationships, and helping every scholar reach their full potential through accountability, support, and encouragement.
He looks forward to partnering with students, families, and staff to make this a successful and memorable year for Northwoods Nighthawks.
Callie Neal
Assistant Principal, 8th Grade
Ms. Neal serves as the 8th Grade Assistant Principal at Northwoods Middle School. Prior to joining Northwoods, she spent five years as an assistant principal and previously served as a Multilingual Learner educator.
Ms. Neal believes that every student can achieve success when provided with high expectations, meaningful support, and opportunities to grow. She is committed to helping students build confidence, develop leadership skills, and prepare for their next steps in high school and beyond.
She looks forward to working alongside students, families, and staff to ensure every 8th grade Nighthawk is prepared for future success.