Social Studies

Barbara Hairfield
Senior Coordinator
barbara_hairfield@charleston.k12.sc.us
Barbara Hairfield is a nationally recognized social studies educator and CCSD’s Secondary Social Studies Instructional Specialist, bringing decades of experience in curriculum leadership, teacher coaching, and state and national education policy. A National Board Certified teacher and multiple award recipient, she has shaped standards, assessments, and professional learning across South Carolina and the nation, while mentoring educators and serving on influential advisory boards and councils.

Caley Jones
Elementary Schools
caley_jones@charleston.k12.sc.us
Caley Jones is a district instructional specialist who supports schools through leadership coaching, data analysis, and implementation of personalized and standards-based learning. With prior experience as a transformation coach and classroom teacher, she drives instructional improvement by aligning coaching, curriculum, and strategic planning. 

Jason Dhanapalan
Middle/High Schools
jason_dhanapalan@charleston.k12.sc.us
J.D. Dhanapalan, a former professor and award-winning soccer player and coach from South Africa, brings a wealth of academic and leadership experience, including teaching AP-level history and mentoring teachers in Charlotte-Mecklenburg, as well as boosting USHC End of Course scores at Baptist Hill High School. With advanced degrees from the University of KwaZulu Natal and Gardner-Webb University, he now joins CCSD’s Social Studies team to support middle and high schools with his deep content knowledge and passion for coaching and mentoring.

Dr. Jason Brisini
Middle/High Schools
jason_brisini@charleston.k12.sc.us
Dr. Jason Brisini is a veteran CCSD educator and instructional leader with over 15 years of experience as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and program developer. Known for founding Wando’s AP Academy and leading districtwide distance learning initiatives, he brings expertise in student-centered instruction, social studies curriculum, and equity-focused leadership rooted in project-based learning and personalized professional development.