5th Grade

Stacey Axelsson

My name is Stacey Axelsson and I’m excited to be embarking on my sixth year of teaching fifth grade at Midway! Prior to MES, I spent almost five years teaching in Pennsylvania. I have a Master’s Degree in Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in English. I am certified to teach kindergarten through sixth grade as well as special education up through twelfth grade. Before becoming a teacher, my career focused on writing and communications. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time on the lake with my family, participating in book clubs, traveling and taking photographs. In addition to my husband of twenty five years, I have a son who is a Sophomore at Clemson and a daughter who is a rising Sophomore in high school. 

David Dutka

I look forward to getting to know each of my students this year.  

It’s hard to believe the 2024-25 school year will be my seventh year teaching fifth grade at Midway Elementary.  MES has been a huge part of my career both before and after graduating from USC in 2018.  I worked at Midway as a substitute employee and later as a member of the custodial staff.  While student teaching, I had the opportunity to learn from the teachers and students here at Midway.  I still learn from the teachers and students here and that is what makes our school’s learning community so strong.  

When I am not teaching and learning at Midway.  I enjoy spending time with my family & friends, kayaking, walking my dogs, Letty & Stevie, and maintaining a respectful distance from my cat, Eleanor Roosevelt.

Adriana Garcia Bracho

Immersion Math/Science

Bonjour! I am Mme. Garcia and I am excited to start my fifth year teaching in the United States and at Midway Elementary as the 5th grade French Immersion Math and Science teacher!

I have over 15 years of experience as a language educator for publics of various ages and different settings, from online sessions to elementary and middle school students from different countries. I earned a Bachelor's degree in Education with a focus in Modern Languages from Universidad del Zulia in my home country Venezuela and I have done different training related to foreign language teaching and learning, literacy and math strategies that have enriched my professional background greatly. 

As a teacher, I am passionate about helping students see themselves as capable, critical and creative thinkers- especially in math. I believe that everyone can be a mathematician so my goal is to nurture a growth mindset in each student by celebrating effort, perseverance, problem-solving and deep reasoning in a way that they feel confident to ask questions and grow from their mistakes. 

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy dancing, discovering new food, watching movies and series, traveling and spending time with my husband Mario, my 10-year old daughter Maria and my friends. Looking forward to starting a new adventure this year with you all! 

Jessie Garner

Immersion ELA/Social Studies

My name is Jessie Garner.  I’m originally from Rochester, NY, but have been living in SC for 15 years. I live in Lexington with my husband Mark, our children Charlie and Molly, and our dog Finnegan. I LOVE to kayak, read, and travel!

This is my 15th year teaching. Along with 5th grade, I’ve taught 2nd grade and special education working with students in 4K-8th. I’ve also been a literacy coach in Lexington 1. I can’t wait to help your child grow and glow this year! Go Mustangs!

Emily Garren

I'm thrilled to kick off another school year with all of you! This marks my 11th year teaching overall, and my 6th year here at Midway. I have a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Carolina and a Masters degree in Teaching & Learning with an emphasis on literacy from Coastal Carolina. I also have my GT and Literacy Coach endorsements. Outside of school, my two children, Whit (6) and Scottie (3), keep my husband Wesley and I on our toes!  I love traveling, getting lost in a good book, and relaxing at the beach. I'm looking forward to a fantastic year of learning and growth together!

Kate Paull

My name is Kate Paull and I am so excited for another year of fifth grade. This will be my second year at Midway, and I absolutely love being a Mustang! I graduated from the University of South Carolina and have been teaching since 2008. I have my Masters Degree +30 in Elementary Education and I have my National Board Certification in Literacy. I am also certified as a Reading Coach, Literacy Specialist and Gifted and Talented teacher. My husband and I have three kids and we are a big sports family. We especially love cheering for our Michigan Wolverines. I love going for walks, traveling, reading and spending time with family and friends. I am looking forward to a wonderful year! 

Camdyn Ritchie

Hello and welcome to fifth grade! My name is Camdyn Ritchie and this will be my second year of teaching. I am a product of Lexington One by graduating from River Bluff High School. Go Gators! I continued my education by receiving my Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Georgia Southern University. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing with my dogs, Dixie and Darcie, reading and enjoy local coffee shops! I am excited to continue to learn and grow over my second year at Midway Elementary. Go Mustangs!