LCAE Board of directors

We are a team of individuals who know education plays a significant role in people reaching their full potential.

The values that guide our work are:

  • Integrity

  • Sustainability

  • Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

  • Innovation

  • Health & Wellness

  • Phyllis Barrett, Chairman of the Board of LCAE, is a retired civil and criminal court reporter, having served throughout the state of South Carolina for 33 years. She served as president of the SC State Court Reporters Association from 2002-2006. In her freetime, Phyllis enjoys gardening, playing mahjong, and baking.

  • Lindsey Elmore has more than 20 years of experience in education and nonprofit leadership, with a background in teaching, youth development, curriculum design, and program leadership. She is passionate about ensuring every child has access to the opportunities and support they need to succeed and is honored to serve on the LCAE Board of Directors. In her free time, Lindsey enjoys traveling, discovering new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends.

  • Amey Wrenn is an education professional with a passion for early childhood development. She holds a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the College of Charleston (2020) and has taught across various grade levels and settings. Now serving as a Development Staff Member for LCAE, she’s committed to providing students and families with the resources they need to bridge the achievement gap. When she’s not working, she loves singing, traveling, and exploring new restaurants.

  • Steph Eldridge is a science teacher and graduate student pursuing research in issues of equity in science teacher preparation. Since 2016, Steph has taught a range of students from rising 5th graders through college students throughout the Lowcountry. Steph earned their MAT in Biology from The Citadel and is pursuing a Ph.D. in science education through University of Georgia. Steph’s research interests include LGBTQ+ issues in education, gender equity, and game-based learning. In their free time, Steph enjoys paddleboarding, traveling, creating art, and planning meetups for their crafting group.

  • Melissa Barrett, LCAE Founder and Executive Director, is a native of South Carolina. She has over 20 years of experience in teaching, in public and private sectors, in high, medium, and low socio-economic schools since 2001. Her experiences, knowledge, and passion for activism and equity led her to found Lowcountry Center for Academic Equity. When she’s not teaching, Melissa spends her time exercising, gardening, and keeping up with current events.