Principal- Mrs. Kristen Eubanks

Phone: 803-476-4600        Email: keubanks@lexrich5.org

Kristen Eubanks proudly serves as the Principal of Lake Murray Elementary. Along with the staff at Lake Murray, she believes that it is the primary role of educators to educate, empower, and encourage all children in a safe and nurturing environment. Mrs. Eubanks looks forward to the continued partnership with the LMES teachers, parents, and the community to ensure every student is challenged, yet nurtured in a positive atmosphere where they are capable of reaching extraordinary goals.  

She began her career as a Teacher at Lake Carolina Elementary in Richland School District Two. She was promoted to serve as Assistant Principal, and was later named Principal of Bridge Creek Elementary. She joined the District 5 team as Principal of Lake Murray Elementary in 2023. This year will be her fourteenth year serving as a Principal. 

Mrs. Eubanks earned her Bachelors of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of South Carolina. After deciding to change her career to pursue her dream of making a positive difference for others, she earned a Masters of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education degree from the University of South Carolina.  Mrs. Eubanks later obtained her Education Specialist degree in Educational Administration from Capella University. 

Prior to coming to Lake Murray, she led the way to transform Bridge Creek Elementary into an award winning STEAM-Medical magnet school. Under her leadership, the school was named a South Carolina ASCD Whole Child School, as well as a  Magnet Schools of America New and Emerging School of Distinction, National Demonstration Magnet School, and Magnet School of Excellence. 

Since completing her third year at LMES, Lake Murray Elementary has been named as the #1 Best Public School in the Columbia Area and one of the Top 2% of schools in the Nation, according to Niche. Lake Murray Elementary was also voted as the #1 Overall Best School among public and private schools in Columbia (Kidding Around Columbia-Kaboom Award) for the past two consecutive years.  Under her leadership, Lake Murray has reigned as back to back Attendance Champions with the lowest chronic absenteeism rate in the District 5 and LMES has earned an Excellent/Excellent rating for student achievement and growth.

Mrs. Eubanks has been named the Richland County Educational Office Professionals and South Carolina Educational Office Professionals' Administrator of the Year. Mrs. Eubanks serves on the Board of Directors of South Carolina Association of Teaching, Learning, and Leading, where she served as President for two years. 

Mrs. Eubanks has been married for twenty three years and has a son, Joseph, who will be heading to the University of South Carolina this year.  In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending quality time on the lake with her family and friends and her sweet dog Ali (who looks very much like our very own Captain).

Assistant Principal- Mrs. Elizabeth Knott

Phone: 803-476-4612

Email: eknott@lexrich5.org

I am thrilled to begin my fourth year in administration at Lake Murray Elementary School and my first year serving as Assistant Principal. It is a joy to work alongside our incredible teachers, staff, and families to support the success and well-being of every student.

As a proud Chapin native and Chapin High School graduate, it is especially meaningful to serve the community that helped shape me. My journey as an educator began right here at LMES, where I served as a Teacher Cadet during high school. That experience sparked a love for working with children that has continued to grow throughout my career.

This year marks my 21st year in education. I began my career teaching second grade at Red Bank Elementary before returning to Lake Murray Elementary. Since then, I have served in a variety of roles, including Teacher, Reading Interventionist, Response to Intervention Specialist, Reading Coach, and Administrative Assistant Principal. I was honored to be named LMES Teacher of the Year in 2010–11 and Lexington-Richland School District Five Teacher of the Year in 2011–12. These recognitions reflect the wonderful students, colleagues, and leaders who have shaped and supported me along the way.

I earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Marketing with a minor in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education, both from the University of South Carolina. Most recently, I completed a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Western Governors University.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Chad, and our daughter, Caroline, who is beginning her first year at the University of South Carolina. As a family, we love being outdoors, especially hiking to waterfalls throughout the Carolinas and spending time on the lake. We also adore our playful pup, Murphy, who is a proud member of Captain’s Crew!

I am honored to serve the students, families, and staff of Lake Murray Elementary and look forward to a fantastic year of learning and growing together!

Administrative Assistant Principal- Mr. Kyle Yobs

I am excited to be part of the LMES crew! My role is to serve the families and staff at Lake Murray Elementary for the betterment of all. I cannot wait to start our journey. 

I have been in education for 16 years serving as a high school English teacher, high school social studies, and administrative assistant principal. I earned a Master’s in Teaching Social Studies from the University of South Carolina and a Master’s of Education - Administration and Supervision from Liberty University. 

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two boys. I like to work out, play golf, and watch sports. 

Phone: 

Email: syobs@lexrich5.org