About Mrs. Lawrence

Hello, Porter Ridge Pirates! I am very honored to serve as your principal at Porter Ridge Elementary! I have served in a variety of roles in education since 1993 including elementary classroom teacher, literacy facilitator, assistant principal, and principal. Prior to my assignment at Porter Ridge Elementary, I was principal at Waxhaw Elementary for four years and principal at East Elementary for two years. My job as a school administrator is very important to me, and I love being a part of the lives of my students, watching them grow and learn each and every day!

I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Wingate University, a Master of Arts in Education from UNC-Charlotte, and a Master of Arts in School Administration and Curriculum and Supervision from UNC-Charlotte. I truly consider myself to be a "lifetime learner" and I am so appreciative of the various educational opportunities I have had thus far in my life.

I reside in Wingate with my daughter and our two rescue dogs, Shae and Blue. My daughter is a junior at UNC-Charlotte and my middle son graduated from there in 2019! (Go 49ers!) My oldest son graduated from NC State University—he is married and I have two adorable grand-dogs! When I am not spending time with my family or learning new things to help my students and teachers at school, I love to read! You will never find me without a great book to read! I have also recently started kayaking, and I look forward to more adventures with this new hobby. In addition, I spend time doing volunteer work and fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This cause is very near and dear to my heart!

Our team at Porter Ridge is dedicated to helping our students be successful and driven to do their very best! Go Pirates! Let's show that Pirate Pride!!! ♥

Degrees and Certifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, Wingate University
• Master of Arts in Education, UNC Charlotte
• Masters of Arts in School Administration and Curriculum and Supervision, UNC Charlotte.

Contact Mrs. Lawrence

• Phone: 704-289-1965
• Email: cheryl.lawrence@ucps.k12.nc.us

About Mrs. Polk

Mrs. Jalonda Polk began her career in education in 2002 with Anson County Schools and then transitioned to Union County Public Schools in July of 2006. She has been a pre-kindergarten teacher, first-grade teacher, summer school teacher, administrative intern, and assistant principal. 

During her time in the public school system, she has also taught Adult High School classes for South Piedmont Community College. Mrs. Polk loves to be involved in the learning process for children and adults and she is a lifelong learner. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from North Carolina A&T State University and her master’s degree in School Administration from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke.

Mrs. Polk resides in Wingate with her husband, Jercoby and daughters, Bobbi and Baylee. She enjoys spending time with her family and is active in her church.

Contact Mrs. Polk

• Email: jalonda.polk@ucps.k12.nc.us