5th Grade

Stacey Axelsson

My name is Stacey Axelsson and I’m excited to be embarking on my ninth 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 eight years, I have a 22-year-old son, an 18-year-old daughter and two fluffy chow chows!

David Dutka

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

It’s hard to believe the 2026-27 school year will be my ninth 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.

Jessie Garner

Immersion ELA/Social Studies

My name is Jessie Garner.  I’m originally from Rochester, NY, but have been living in SC for 16 years. I live in Lexington with my husband Mark and our children Charlie and Molly. I LOVE to kayak, read, and travel!

This is my 16th 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!

Shachia Haile

I am excited to join the school community as a 5th grade teacher! This will be my 14th year in education, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue doing what I love—helping students learn, grow, and discover their potential. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of teaching 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades, which has allowed me to gain a variety of experiences and perspectives as an educator.

I hold a Master’s degree in Education and believe that every student can succeed when they are supported, encouraged, and provided with meaningful learning opportunities. I am passionate about building strong relationships with my students, creating engaging learning experiences, and helping students develop confidence in mathematics and problem-solving.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, and serving my community. I am excited to be part of the school family and look forward to an incredible year of learning, growth, and making memories with my students!

Kate Paull

My name is Kate Paull and I am so excited for another year teaching fifth grade at Midway! 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 third 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 enjoying local coffee shops. I am excited to continue to learn and grow over my third year at Midway Elementary!