CCSD's 2009 Teacher of the Year: Ellyn Winkles
Meet Ellyn Winkles, Teacher at West Ashley High School
Ellyn Winkles has been selected as the 2009 Teacher of the Year of the Charleston County School District (CCSD)!
Winkles is a drama teacher and the gospel company director at West Ashley High School, who has over 20 years of experience in the classroom. She received her undergraduate degree from Clemson University and her Masters from the Citadel, and she has participated in post-graduate work at the College of Charleston. Her honors include being named the CCSD Drama Teacher Liaison, participating in the WISE Class, attending the National High Schools That Work (HSTW) conference, being an active member of SCAAE Alliance for Arts Education, and being a member of SC Speech Communication Association.
Winkles says her greatest accomplishment is “saving students by mentoring them in a career on stage or saving their lives by helping them to see the talent and ability they possess." She encourages other educators to build positive relationships. She asserts, "Truly remarkable outcomes are possible in a classroom, in a school and in a community when trust, respect, and caring relationships are allowed to flourish. However, the most important relationship built is between teacher and student. Teachers should never fail to forget that they are dealing with real human beings with legitimate needs, desires and feelings.”
Congratulations, Ms. Winkles!