A Lexington-Richland County School District Five elementary school principal has been named a 2026 regional finalist for Magnet Schools of America’s Principal of the Year award.

Karey Fisher, principal of Nursery Road Elementary Schools-Art Magnet, was selected as a regional finalist, joining school leaders from across the country recognized for advancing magnet education and student achievement, according to a news release.

Fisher, who has served as principal since 2023, was honored for her leadership in expanding arts integration and creating innovative learning opportunities for students.

“Being named Magnet Schools of America Region IV Principal of the Year is a humbling honor that belongs to our students,” Fisher said in the media release. “When children are given meaningful access to the arts, they discover their voices and their potential. This recognition affirms the vital role of strong arts programming in shaping confident, engaged learners. I am deeply grateful to the District Office and especially Sara Wheeler, Director of Magnet Programs, for their support, to our exceptional arts teachers and staff for their passion, and most of all to our students whose creativity, voices, and artistry are the heart of our school and the reason this work matters.”

The Magnet Schools of America Principal of the Year Award honors school leaders who demonstrate a commitment to magnet education, student achievement, innovation, equity and community engagement. 

Under Fisher’s leadership, the school is the only one in the district to offer media, visual and performing arts with an extended arts rotation as well as arts integration in the general classroom. 

“We are grateful for a principal whose visionary leadership brings the heart of visual and performing arts into every corner of her school,” said Sara Wheeler, the district’s director of magnet programs. “Through a deep commitment to arts integration, Mrs. Fisher inspires creativity, fosters academic growth, and creates meaningful, unique experiences for every student where every child can explore, express, and shine.”

Before becoming principal at Nursery Road Elementary School, Fisher taught German at Seven Oaks Elementary MEDIA Magnet School and CrossRoads Middle School.

She earned degrees in business administration, German and political science from Heidelberg University and later received a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of South Carolina. 

“We are incredibly proud to see Mrs. Fisher recognized as the MSA Regional Principal of the Year,” Tina McCaskill, chief academic officer, said.“This honor reflects her unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student-centered leadership, and building a school community where every child is supported and challenged to succeed. She ensures arts integration is not an add‑on but a driving force that enriches the development of the whole child. This recognition is well deserved.”

The award will be presented at the Magnet Schools of America National Conference, scheduled for April 14-17 in San Diego.