Principal's Message

My name is Richard Eppes.  In the community, you may know me as Stump.  Stump has been my nickname since I was five years old!  It was even on my college diploma, which I thought was cool.  My mom, not so much!!!  I have been in education for 24 years, and 22 of them have been spent in this building.  I did my student teaching while at Winthrop University here at Gold Hill Middle School.  I love Gold Hill Middle School.  I love the community it serves, and the students that fill it.  I bleed Black and Blue!!!  I mean it when I say this is my “Dream Job”!!!  I cannot imagine doing anything else.  I have worked hard to get here, and I am going to work hard to stay.       

When I was a teacher here, I taught 6th grade math, science, and social studies.  I coached the football team, the 8th grade girls’ basketball team, and the boys’ soccer team.  I approach life with a coach’s mentality.  I am extremely competitive, sometimes loud, easily excitable, and usually acting crazy!  I am the coach that is usually being loud and acting crazy, but I do it all with a smile on my face.  All of what I do comes from a love of helping young people. 

To be a part of the Gold Hill family, you need to know my family.  I married WAY out of my league!!!  Elizabeth is a 5th grade teacher at Kings Town Elementary School here in Fort Mill.  She is a phenomenal wife, mother, and teacher.  We have two boys who are both former Bulldogs.  My oldest son, Jackson is currently at Western Carolina.  My youngest son, Carter is at Fort Mill High School.  Both of my boys are extremely athletic and enjoy playing all types of sports.  They keep me busy when I am not working here at the school, but I love every minute of it! 

Please know that I am here to help your child, and make their middle school experience both, successful and memorable.  I look forward to a great school year and many great years to come. 

Go Bulldogs! 

Stump Eppes

Principal