The Priestley roots run deep and strong through Lincoln County. The Priestley family first settled in Alum Creek in 1809 in the area now known as Priestley Ridge. Steve was born in 1948 in South Charleston and lived in Alum Creek and attended Midway Elementary until his father's job forced his family to move. As soon as he was of legal age, Steve returned home to Lincoln County.
Steve attended Marshall University where in 1970 he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Studies. Steve went on to obtain his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration in 1975. Since then Steve has lived mostly in Lincoln County and has worked in the education system. Some of his jobs throughout those years have included: Elementary Teacher, Elementary Principal, West Virginia Department of Education Assistant Division Chief, Lincoln County Board of Education Assistant Superintendent of Schools, and Superintendent of Schools. Steve also has a strong business background as he managed 4 H&R Block offices from 1993 to 1995 before returning as principal of Griffithsville Elementary.
Steve has been married for 34 years to his wife, Michelle. Steve and Michelle reside in Hamlin as they have for 21 years of their marriage and attend the Alum Creek Independent Missionary Baptist Church.
Steve has dedicated many years to the education system of Lincoln County. He knows what makes Lincoln County the greatest county in the state, but he also knows what Lincoln County needs to get even better.
