Charleston County
School District
Recognizing Teachers
CCSD has built a culture of recognizing teachers at every level — through the annual gala, Teacher of the Year awards with surprise school visits from the Superintendent, the Unsung Educator recognition, Board of Trustees monthly honorees, and the Charleston Educators Symposium.
Taken together, CCSD's approach treats teacher investment as a multi-layered strategy — combining competitive pay, improved working conditions, a robust pipeline, opportunities for career growth, and a strong culture of public recognition.
CCSD's Annual Gala
CCSD hosts a formal annual gala specifically dedicated to honoring the unwavering dedication and exceptional work of its educators. It's officially called An Evening with the Stars and has become one of the district's most prominent traditions for celebrating teachers.
The 10th annual gala, themed Through the Decades, was held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Embassy Suites North Charleston Convention Center — marking a decade of honoring CCSD educators through this event. Charleston County School District
The 9th annual event, themed Storybook Soirée, was held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Charleston Marriott. Charleston County School District
Past gala themes visible on the district's website include:
- Through the Decades (2026, 10th annual)
- Storybook Soirée (2025, 9th annual)
- Nautical Ball (2024)
- Earlier iterations under the An Evening with the Stars brand
The gala also functions as a fundraiser. Funds raised directly support the Charleston Educator Symposium — a professional development program for principals, district leaders, and teachers. The event draws community and business sponsors, with Superintendent Anita Huggins personally signing sponsorship solicitation letters.
Teacher of the Year
CCSD officials surprise five unsuspecting teachers each year by announcing their selection as Top 5 Finalists for Teacher of the Year. The Superintendent presents each finalist with flowers and a plaque.
Superintendent Anita Huggins made personal visits to each finalist's school, with live announcements and updates shared on the district's social media platforms.
Future Teacher Signing Day
CCSD hosts an annual Future Teacher Signing Day Ceremony, with the sixth annual event held in April 2026, bringing together seniors from 11 high schools across the district who are committing to the teaching profession. This reflects the district's investment not only in current teachers but in cultivating the next generation.
Board Recognitions
Monthly Board of Trustees meetings regularly include special recognitions honoring students, staff, and teachers for achievements in academics, athletics, and other areas, including awards like the 212 Degree Award.