Award-Winning Assistant Principal Perry to lead Moore Middle School for the 2025-2026 school year

The 2024-2025 school year has brought many recognitions for Mr. Saani Perry, as he was named not only the Florence 1 Schools Assistant Principal of the Year, but also the SC Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year, and the National Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year. Thursday night, the Florence 1 Schools Board of Trustees approved Perry as the next principal of John W. Moore Middle School.

“Mr. Perry has been an essential part of the growth in West Florence’s STEM Magnet Program and has served as a mentor for many students through the Sharper Knights program,” said Florence 1 Schools Superintendent Richard O’Malley. “He has a strong academic focus as well as a deep care and understanding for the challenges that our students face. I believe that he is the perfect choice to lead Moore Middle School next school year.” 

Perry, who has served as assistant principal at West Florence High School since 2021, said that he is looking forward to his new role.

“I am thrilled and deeply honored to join the incredible faculty and staff at Moore Middle School as principal for the 2025–2026 school year,” Perry said. “Moore’s longstanding tradition of excellence is truly inspiring, and I am wholeheartedly committed to building upon that legacy with purpose and passion. At Moore Middle, our work will be grounded in collaboration, intentionality, and an unwavering commitment to student success. Together, we will guide our scholars through the pivotal middle school years, creating a learning environment that fosters academic and social growth. As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and I am eager to listen, learn, and lead alongside each of you. Your ideas, voices, and engagement are not only welcomed—they are essential. I look forward to the incredible journey ahead and providing "Excellence Every Day, the Moore Way."

Perry holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Middle Level Education from Winthrop University as well as a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Queens University. Currently, he is working on a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of the Cumberlands.