Principal

Peggy Bing O’Banner is a wife, mother, Ghama, educator, friend, public servant, devout believer, and wordsmith. A proud native of Yemassee, SC, her love for reading and conversation has shaped her journey. She maintains an extensive children’s book collection, which she eagerly shares with educators and students alike.

A devoted student of the Holy Scriptures, she enjoys exploring complex topics for deeper understanding. For over 30 years, Mrs. Bing-O’Banner has served her hometown as a councilwoman and Mayor Pro-Tem. She also teaches Sunday School at First African Baptist Church and sings with Marlena Smalls and the Hallelujah Singers, performing across the U.S. and abroad.

As a passionate keeper of the Gullah Culture, she works through FA DA CHILLUN, a nonprofit dedicated to passing down Gullah heritage to future generations. Her 45-year career in education includes roles as a bus driver, tutor, teacher, adjunct professor, literacy coach, assistant principal, principal, curriculum specialist, and currently, president of the Lowcountry Chapter of the Palmetto State Literacy Association.

Her passions include faith, family, great books, cultural preservation, and of course, words.

Her daily mantra: encourage others, read great stories, and learn a new word every day.

Peggy O'Banner

Varnville Elementary School Principal