Middle School Learning Community

The Middle School Learning Community (MSLC) in Charleston County School District believes in the connection between scholars, parents, and educators as the driving force that will positively affect academic outcomes. Making up the educators component of this partnership, the MSLC offers a number of programs in our middle schools which allows scholars to explore and pursue pathways of interest that lead towards a well-rounded college and career-ready scholar.

Through strong academic programs and a focus on social-emotional learning, we are setting the foundation for our scholars to achieve in every endeavor they may pursue. They are the heart of our work!

Dr. Joseph Williams Associate Superintendent of the Secondary Learning Community

He is a native of North Charleston, S.C. and attended Charleston County Public Schools graduating from North Charleston High School in 1991. Immediately after high school, Dr. Williams joined the U.S. Army and served as a medical specialist until 1995. While in the military he served in both combat and medical settings. In 1995 he started his matriculation through higher learning enrolling at South Carolina State University where he graduated with honors in 1998 with a degree in Biology and General Science Education. In 1999 he pursued his degree in Counselor Education, again graduating with honors in 2001. In 2008 he received his Ph.D. from the University of Southern Mississippi in Educational Leadership and Supervision. Dr. Williams participated in a Leadership Academy at Harvard, received Diversity Leadership Training and certification through Furman University's Riley Institute and has attended numerous trainings on literacy at the state level that addressed improving literacy practices in education. His 17-year tenure in Orangeburg and Charleston counties has influenced his philosophy of education: “All children can learn if given the opportunity and support systems needed.”

Dr. Colleen Knauer Executive Director of Middle School Learning

Dr. Knauer has served as the Principal of Special Projects and Support for the Middle and High School Learning Communities since 2021.

Dr. Knauer came to CCSD in 2006 as an English teacher at North Charleston High School (NCHS). Prior to her serving as Acting Principal at NCHS from August 2016 until March 2017, she served as an assistant principal at North Charleston High School, where she directed the Ninth Grade Academy, created and implemented the State Challenge to Achieve Plan and budget, provided instructional support for teacher curriculum teams, implemented afterschool and summer programs, and assisted in hiring and mentoring new teachers and administrators.

In 2017, Dr. Knauer was selected to serve as principal at Northwoods Middle School, where she cultivated a positive culture and climate for students and staff while increasing overall school improvement. For the last several years as Principal of Special Projects and Support, Knauer has provided direct support to the Middle and High School Associate Superintendents, as well as provided instructional support to schools, supported the district’s summer school/credit recovery program, managed high school graduations, and assisted with the management of virtual teachers throughout the district.

Throughout her career as an educator, Knauer has received several certification endorsements including Read 2 Succeed, Advanced Placement, and Gifted and Talented. She was also nominated for 2016 South Carolina Assistant Principal of the Year.

Dr. Knauer holds a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary English from the University of Rhode Island, a Master of Arts in Mathematics Education from The Citadel, and an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Northeastern University. She obtained her principal licensure from the University of Scranton in PK-12 Administration. She has also served as an adjunct professor at Trident Technical College and the College of Charleston.