On behalf of CCSD, we would like to congratulate all of the teachers who have been selected as their school's 2025 Teacher of the Year! You are exemplary leaders, who go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that our students receive a high-quality education. It takes a big heart to shape young minds, and there is no doubt that your hearts are the biggest.
We appreciate all that you do! Each educator holds a special position on this earth. You teach you mentor, and you love.
Heather Simon
St. James-Santee Elementary Middle School
Heather Simon is a general music and band teacher at St. James-Santee Elementary Middle School. Originally from Calloway, Virginia, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Music Education K-12 from Bridgewater College.
Simon has seven years of teaching experience; two at St. James.
“My teaching philosophy centers on creating a joyful and engaging environment where students connect deeply with music and foster a lifelong love and understanding of the arts.”
Sarah Sweatt
James B. Edwards School of Global Leadership
Sarah Sweatt is a fifth-grade teacher at James B. Edwards. A Mount Pleasant native, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Anderson University.
Sarah has ten years of teaching experience, seven years at James B. Edwards.
Big changes happen a little bit at a time. When we create a safe place for our students, when we are open to trying new things, and when we show up everyday with a positive mindset great things happen!
Angela Good
Laurel Hill Primary School
Angela Good is a kindergarten teacher at Laurel Hill. Originally from Summerville, South Carolina, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Francis Marion University and a master’s degree in Literacy from Walden University.
Angela has 20 years of teaching experience, nine at Laurel Hill.
"Teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning." -unknown
Rachel Conroy
Jennie Moore Elementary School
Rachel Conroy is a special education teacher at Jennie Moore. A native Charlestonian, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Early Childhood from the State University of New York at Oneonta and a master’s degree in Special Education from Dowling College.
Rachael has 18 years of teaching experience, and 8 years at Jennie Moore.
"Throughout my years of teaching, I have approached each and every day with the belief that it will be an amazing day and every student who walks through my door will leave feeling successful and loved. It is important to me that my students know we all face challenges and with the positive environment that has been built in my classroom, we can work through those challenges together. Students in my classroom know they are safe to make mistakes and I will support them through it and help guide them to a successful path.
Many students have been with me for multiple years which allows me to celebrate the milestones they reach with them. With all the positive foundations that have been built within my classroom, students can be themselves and learn at their individual pace. One of my greatest joys is seeing a big smile when success has been made and recognized."
Elissa Chicarella
Laing Middle School
Elissa Chicarella is an eighth-grade math teacher from Oswego, New York. She earned a bachelor's degree in Mathematics with Certification in Secondary Education from SUNY Geneseo and master's degrees in in Secondary Education - Mathematics and in Educational Leadership from Coastal Carolina University.
Elissa has 27 years of teaching experience, the last 5 years at Laing.
Rita Pierson said, "Every child deserves a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can possibly be." My goal each year is to be a champion for my students, to build their confidence in their abilities in mathematics, so they leave me feeling successful and powerful.
Jennifer Goodall
Mamie P. Whitesides Elementary School
Jennifer Goodall is an elementary school art teacher at Mamie P. Whitesides. She is originally from Ishperning, Michigan and earned a bachelor’s degree in Education from Northern Michigan University and a master’s of technology in Education from Lesley University.
Jennifer has 19 years of teaching experience, all at Whitesides.
Be brave and bold! We can all create and enjoy the process along the way!
Logan McCarrell
Lucy Beckham High School
Logan McCarrell is a veterinary science teacher at Lucy Beckham. A Greenville, South Carolina native, she earned an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from the University of South Carolina and a master’s of teaching from Converse College.
Logan is in her eleventh year of teaching, and fifth at Lucy Beckham.
Organized chaos at its finest!
Jordan Bates
East Cooper Montessori School
Jordan Bates is an elementary school counselor at East Cooper Montessori School (ECMS). She is originally from Charleston and earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the College of Charleston and Master of Education in School Counseling from The Citadel.
Bates has five years of teaching experience including the last three years at ECMS
“Connection is key! I highly value connecting and building relationships with my students. a child's heart must feel seen and loved before the child is able to open their mind to learn and grow.”
Madeline Griffith
Belle Hall Elementary School
Madeline Griffith is an art teacher at Belle Hall Elementary School. Originally from Centerville, Ohio, she earned her undergraduate degree in Fine Arts from Bowling Green State University
Griffith has eight years of teaching experience including the last six years at Belle Hall.
“I'm interested in showing students how art relates to their lives. I want students to see the connections between their core subjects and art. Art is another avenue for students to generate and share knowledge.”
Brianna Gibson
Charles Pinckney Elementary
Brianna Gibson is a fourth-grade ELA and social studies teacher from Sumter, SC. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the College of Charleston and a master’s degree in Classroom Leadership from Southern Wesleyan University.
She has 15 years of teaching experience, all at Pinckney.
Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel.” My goal in teaching is to have all students excited and engaged in their learning. I hope to encourage students to become lifelong learners."
Alex Ahlefeld
Moultrie Middle School
Alex Ahlefeld is a seventh-grade ELA teacher at Moultlrie. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech ).
Alex has 11 years of teaching experience, five at Moultrie.
"Sometimes you gotta work a little so you can ball a lot." - Tom Haverford
Laura Cassell
Sullivan’s Island Elementary School
Laura Cassell, who is originally from Hermann, MO, is a physical education teacher at Sullivan’s Island Elementary School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and a master’s degree in Education from Truman State University.
Cassell has seven years of teaching experience, all at Sullivan’s Island.
Learning should be fun, challenging, and rewarding.
Catherine Scheaffer
Cario Middle School
Catherine Scheaffer is a sixth-grade science teacher from Summerville, SC. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Covenant College and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University
Catherine has 23 years of teaching experience, including the past four at Cario.
“Danger! Scientist at Work” are the words emblazoned on the back of my students' lab coats, which in many ways reflect my approach to teaching. I approach teaching with the end in mind, envisioning the contributions that the “scientists” at work in my classroom may one day make to our world. By providing meaningful, relevant lessons designed to pique curiosity, students become equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for the bright futures that await them
Brandi Summer
Carolina Park Elementary School
Brandi Summer is a second-grade teacher at Carolina Park. Originally from Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the College of Charleston.
Brandi has 11 years of teaching experience and 6 years at Carolina Park.
"I believe that relationships are the foundation for all learning. One of my most important jobs as a teacher is building a classroom community where students feel seen, heard, and valued."
Lyndall Akers is from Chevy Chase, Maryland, and is a high school teacher at Septima P. Clark. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Art History and a master’s of education from Southern Seminary and the University of South Carolina.
Lyndall has 28 years of teaching experience, eight at Septima P. Clark
She describes her approach to teaching as: Interdisciplinary.
Jenny Croucher
Turning Point Academy
Jenny Croucher is a middle school teacher at Turning Point Academy. She is a James Island native and earned a bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a master's in Teaching, Learning, and Advocacy from the College of Charleston.
Jenny has 25 years of teaching experience, 2 at Turning Point.
One who cares must meet the cared-for just as he or she is, as a whole human being with individual needs and interests. - Nel Noddings
Keith Heyward
James Island Elementary School
Keith Heyward is a kindergarten teacher at James Island. A native Charlestonian, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a master’s degree in Reading and Literacy from the University of South Carolina.
Keith has nine years of teaching experience, and seven years at James Island.
The lives of ALL kids matter - Mista Heyward
Ally King
Camp Road Middle School
Ally King is a sixth-grade science teacher at Camp Road. Originally from James Island, she earned a bachelor's degree in Middle-Level Education: Math and Science from the University of South Carolina and a master's degree in Teaching, Learning, and Advocacy from the College of Charleston.
Ally has eight years of teaching experience, three at Camp Road.
I believe that students should be challenged to become critical thinkers to become as successful as possible. I strive to ask questions that require students to use problem-solving and reasoning skills to answer. To facilitate this, it is important to me to build positive relationships that allow students to be comfortable asking questions and feel safe in my classroom.
Morgan Johnson
Stono Park Elementary School
Morgan Johnson is a child development teacher at Stono Park. Originally from Conway, South Carolina, she graduated from Coastal Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
Morgan has seven years of teaching experience with three years at Stono Park.
My approach to teaching is to focus on building strong, positive relationships with all of my students and encouraging a growth mindset. I prioritize getting to know all of my students individually and creating a classroom environment where they feel safe, valued, and respected. By building this trust they feel comfortable taking risks, asking questions, and learning from their mistakes. By fostering a mindset that embraces challenges as opportunities to grow, I aim to help students build confidence in their ability to learn and be successful.
English Walpole
Stiles Point Elementary School
English Walpole, who is originally from Johns Island, is a kindergarten teacher at Stiles Point. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from the College of Charleston followed by a Master of Education in Literacy from The Citadel. She has 30 years of teaching experience, the last 25 at SPES.
Be diligent in believing that what we do in the classroom could possibly echo for a lifetime in the heart of a student.” – Robert John Meehan
I have the privilege of teaching young children and being a part of their early learning experiences. My desire is for my children to love to learn but also to learn how to love themselves and others. Teaching children to be caring and empathetic is quite a responsibility, but one that I take very seriously. I also strive to model empathy and kindness, values that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. I build a strong classroom community where students feel loved and respected. This supportive, nurturing environment is crucial in helping them thrive, both academically and emotionally.
Elizabeth Gunther
James Island Charter High School
Elizabeth Gunther, originally from Folly Beach, SC, is a visual arts teacher at James Island Charter High School. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education from the University of South Carolina and a Master of Education in Teaching, Learning, and Advocacy from the College of Charleston.
Gunther has 11 years of teaching experience, including seven years at JICHS.
I love the quote "Creativity is intelligence having fun." I believe every student deserves the opportunity to create and have fun while building connections and confidence!
Ben Harley
Murray-LaSaine Montessori School
Ben Harley, a Charleston native, is a physical education teacher at Murray-Lasaine Montessori School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from the College of Charleston.
Harley is in his third year of teaching, all at Murray-Lasaine.
My approach to teaching is to inspire students for lifelong fitness so that they may still enjoy the idea of moving around well after they are past their years of school.
Keith Heyward
James Island Elementary School
Keith Heyward is a kindergarten teacher at James Island. A native Charlestonian, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a master’s degree in Reading and Literacy from the University of South Carolina.
Keith has nine years of teaching experience and seven years at James Island.
The lives of ALL kids matter - Mista Heyward
Dr. Vondina Moseley
Cooper River Center for Advanced Studies
Dr. Vondina Moseley is a Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science teacher at Cooper River. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, she earned a bachelor's degree in Biology and Psychology from the University of Maryland - Baltimore County and a doctorate degree in Biomedical Sciences from MUSC.
Vondina has 11 years of experience, 3 at Cooper River.
I value student-centered teaching that encourages curiosity and develops critical thinking.
Jennifer Gomez
Charleston County School of the Arts
Jennifer Gomez is a teacher librarian at the School of the Arts. Originally from Winchester, Massachusetts, she earned a bachelor’s degree in French and Sociology from the College of the Holy Cross. She continued her education by earning a master’s in teaching with a concentration in French at Boston University and a master’s in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina.
Jennifer has 23 years of teaching experience with 3 at the School of the Arts.
I believe that fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment is essential to supporting student achievement. By providing diverse resources, personalized guidance, and a space where all voices matter, I want to empower students to explore, grow, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Every interaction is an opportunity to affirm their unique identities and abilities, ensuring they know they belong and their stories matter.
Bonnie Knighton
Deer Park Middle School
Bonnie Knighton is an eighth-grade science teacher at Deer Park. Originally from West Fargo, North Dakota, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training and Science Education from North Dakota State University and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Bonnie has 23 years of teaching experience, two at Deer Park.
I try to use the 5E approach to teaching as much as I can. I find that it lends itself well to the Science classroom through inquiry based and student centered learning.
Kristopher Wilber
Lambs Elementary School
Originally from Penn Yan, New York, Kristopher Wilber is a physical education teacher at Lambs. He earned a bachelor's degree in Health and Physical Education from SUNY-Brockport. He continued his education by earning master's degrees in Children with Disabilities and Education Leadership School Administration from St. John Fisher College and The Citadel.
Kristopher has 18 years of teaching experience, 2 at Lambs.
“Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about inspiring a lifelong love of fitness and nutrition, nurturing curiosity, and empowering students to realize their full potential. Every day that a student is in the school setting is an opportunity to make a difference, not only in academic growth, but in shaping the hearts and minds of the leaders of tomorrow.”
Carla Ferrette-Clark
Military Magnet Academy
Carla Ferrette-Clark is a high school Career and Technology teacher at Military Magnet. Originally from Charleston, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Charleston Southern University.
Carla has nine years of teaching experience, all at Military Magnet.
"I believe in empowering students with hands-on experiences, industry skills, and real-world problem-solving because the future belongs to those who can build, innovate, and lead.
Sara Gillispie
Malcolm C. Hursey Montessori School
Sara Gillispie is a Lower Elementary School teacher at Hursey. She is originally from Wading River, New York, and earned both a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and a master’s in Organizational Leadership from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania.
She has eight years of teaching experience at Hursey.
Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.
Latosha Hightower-Hayes
Pinehurst Elementary School
Latosha Hightower-Hayes is a third-grade Literacy Teacher, as well as a Clemson Mentor Co-Teacher at Pinehurst. Originally from Columbia, South Carolina, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Coker College and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Lesley University.
Latosha has 26 years of teaching teaching experience, three at Pinehurst.
As an educator, I’m dedicated to creating a caring, inclusive environment where students feel inspired and empowered to engage in activities that spark their interest. With high expectations for behavior and academics, I cultivate a collaborative space that encourages critical thinking, connection, and growth. My goal is to nurture each child's unique potential, helping them become confident, lifelong learners.
Michelle Mazell
W.B. Goodwin Elementary School
Michelle Mazell is a second-grade teacher at W.B. Goodwin. A Charleston native, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the College of Charleston and a master’s in Literacy from the American College of Education.
Michelle has 18 years of teaching experience, all at W.B. Goodwin.
I believe in creating a supportive and caring environment where I can build strong relationships with my students, guiding them through their learning journey with patience, encouragement, and understanding.
Robin Warren
Mary Ford Early Learning & Family Center
Robin Warren is a kindergarten teacher at Mary Ford from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Child Development from South Carolina State University and a master’s degree from Grand Canyon University.
Robin has 17 years of teaching experience with 13 years at Mary Ford.
“Teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning.”
Tarikia White
Daniel Jenkins Academy
Tarikia White is a Career and Technical Education teacher and Restoration Specialist at Daniel Jenkins. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina and a master’s degree in Teaching and Learning with a concentration in Curriculum and Instruction from Nova Southeastern University.
Tarikia has 18 years of teaching experience, eight years at Daniel Jenkins.
“I believe unconditionally in the ability of people to respond when they are told the truth. We need to be taught to study rather than believe, to inquire rather than to affirm.”
— Septima Poinsette Clark
Katherine (Kate) Gleaton
Ladson Elementary School
Kate Gleaton is a Reading Intervention teacher at Ladson. Originally from Center Valley, PA, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education from Widener University Widener University and a master’s degree in literacy from Clemson University
Gleaton has 13 years of experience, including seven years at Ladson.
“Important achievements require a clear focus, all-out effort, and a bottomless trunk full of strategies.” ― Carol S. Dwec
Kevin Cooney
North Charleston High School
Kevin Cooney is an algebra and statistics teacher at North Charleston. Originally from Johns Creek, Georgia, he earned a bachelor’s of fine arts from the University of Tampa.
Kevin is in his sixth year of teaching and third year at North Charleston.
Energy, enthusiasm, empathy, encouragement, and engagement.
Kayla Brown
Midland Park Primary
Kayla Brown is a child development teacher at Midland Park. Originally from Cope, South Carolina, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the College of Charleston.
Brown is in her fifth year of teaching, all of them at Midland Park.
"Teaching is more than imparting knowledge; it is inspiring change. Learning is more than absorbing facts; it is acquiring understanding."—William Arthur Ward
Melanie Goss
R.B. Stall High School
Melanie Goss is a ninth-grade English teacher from Schererville, IN. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and English from Marquette and a master’s degree in English from Purdue University.
Goss has 18 years of teaching experience, including five years at Stall.
Building relationships with students is paramount to everything else that happens in my classroom. They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.
Shannon Burns
Chicora Elementary School
Shannon Burns is a second grade teacher from Manasquan, NJ. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Inclusive Education, with a double major in General Education and Special Education from Western Carolina University.
Shannon has four years of teaching experience, including three years at Chicora.
My approach to teaching would be that the students always come first. Whether it's a student centered classroom, an environment that makes them feel safe and welcomed, or putting everything on hold to help a student who may be in need. Providing unconditional love, support, an ear to listen to any problem, and allowing the student to be exactly who they are is just what a student needs, on top of teaching them with true passion and catering to their specific needs.
Jennie Church is the teacher librarian at Angel Oak. Originally from Lexington, SC, she earned her undergraduate degree in Special Education from the College of Charleston and her master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina.
Church has 20 years of teaching experience, including three years at Angel Oak.
"The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library."
Saylor DeJoy
Mt. Zion Elementary School
Saylor DeJoy is a second-grade teacher from Charleston, SC (James Island native). She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the College of Charleston and a master’s degree in Teaching and Learning from Clemson University.
She has 14 years of teaching experience, including three years at Mt. Zion.
"Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together." - JCP
Lindsay Beard
Haut Gap Middle School
Lindsay Beard is a seventh-grade advanced math and eighth-grade Algebra 1 Honors teacher at Haut Gap. She earned a bachelor's degree in Middle Mathematics Education from the College of Charleston and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education.
Lindsay has 11 years of teaching experience, all at Haut Gap.
"Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel." ~Socrates
Taylor Bensinger
Edith L. Frierson Montessori School
Taylor Bensinger teaches Art, STEAM, and CTE at Edith L. Frierson Montessori School. Originally from Goose Creek, SC, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from Charleston Southern University and multiple master's degrees in Coaching and Athletic Administration, and Educational Leadership from Concordia University - Irvine and The Citadel.
She has five years of teaching experience, all at Frierson.
My teaching approach is hands-on, experiential, and deeply connected to community and culture. I believe students learn best by doing—whether it's charter fishing, restoring marshes, running an ice cream business, or exploring local history through art and storytelling. I strive to develop students physically, mentally, socially, and academically by blending movement, creativity, and real-world applications. My goal is to foster curiosity, responsibility, and a strong sense of place in my students while preparing them for life beyond the classroom.
Sade’ Nelson
St. John’s High School
Sade’ Nelson serves as the school counselor at St. John’s. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Criminal Justice followed by another master’s in School Counseling from USC-Upstate and Charleston Southern University.
Nelson has worked for CCSD since 2012, including the last three years at St. John’s.
"Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today." - Malcolm X
Natasha Jones is a math and geometry teacher at C.E. Williams. Originally from Charleston, SC, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Tuskegee University and a master’s degree in Mathematics with an emphasis on Statistics from the University of Charleston.
Natasha has 29 years of teaching experience at C.E. Williams.
I call my students “my kids” because in our year together, they aren’t just kids on my class list, they become a part of my heart. I try to create an environment that makes my students feel safe and know that their voices and ideas are valuable.
Carissa Carr
Gifted and Talented
Carissa Carr, who is originally from Flemington, New Jersey is a Gifted and Talented teacher at Oakland Elementary. Carissa earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Longwood University and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership & Administration from The Citadel.
Carissa has 19 years of teaching experience, eight years at Oakland.
"Students don't care how much you know until they know how much you care". I have always led my classrooms with passion, heart, and empathy. My philosophy in education has always been connection before content. Relationships must be built first and then great success will follow!
Chantel Champion
St. Andrew’s School of Math and Science
Chantel Champion is a fifth-grade teacher at St. Andrew’s. Originally from Charleston she earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the College of Charleston.
Champion has three years of teaching experience, all at SASMS.
"Every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be." Rita Pierson
Megan Kee
West Ashley High School
Megan Kee, who is originally from Rock Hill, SC, is a math teacher at West Ashley. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and Math from Clemson University.
Kee earned master's degrees in Education (Comparative and International Education) and Educational Leadership (Secondary) from the University of Oxford and The Citadel.
Kee has five years of experience, all at WAHS.
“Go out into the world and do well. But more importantly, go out into the world and do good.“ - Minor Meyers Jr.
Robert McCarthy
West Ashley Center for Advanced Studies
Robert McCarthy who is originally from Beaufort, South Carolina is a sports medicine teacher at West Ashley CAS. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Sports Medicine from Erskine College and multiple master's degrees in Health Exercise and Sports Science and Educational Leadership from The Citadel.
He has 12 years of teaching experience including four at West Ashley.
I use humor and experiences from my athletic training career to build a relationship with the students. Once that is formed, teaching sports medicine becomes vastly easier because I can relate it to multiple aspects of their life.
Jessica Pisani
Springfield Elementary School
Jessica Pisani, who is originally from Westbury, NY, is a resource teacher at Springfield Elementary School. She earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Early Childhood/Special Education and Literacy from Indiana University of Pennslyvania.
She has eight years of teaching experience, including three years at Springfield.
"Why fit in when you were born to stand out?" This quote by Dr. Seuss sticks out to me the most when I think about teaching my students- I strive to embrace my students' personalities and differing abilities every day, and try to meet them where they are. At my school, I collaborate, communicate and advocate to not only help them fit in but to help others accept all of their capabilities as well.
April Blanton
Oakland Elementary School
April Blanton is a Physical Education teacher at Oakland. Originally from Hanahan, SC, she earned an undergraduate degree in Physical Education from the College of Charleston and a master’s degree in Elementary Administration and Supervision from the Citadel.
Blanton has 18 years of teaching experience, all at Oakland.
Teamwork makes the dream work!
Erin McClendon
C.E. Williams Middle School - North
Erin McClendon is a sixth-grade English and social studies teacher at C.E. Williams. Originally from Fairfax, Virginia, she earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Carolina.
Erin has seven years of teaching experience with 4 at C.E. Williams.
I believe a strong work ethic and a positive attitude can take you far in life. I strive to instill these qualities in my students every day.
Racquel Hosey-Cunningham
Charleston Development Academy
Racquel Hosey-Cunningham is a fourth and fifth grade Social Studies and Reading teacher at Charleston Development Academy. Originally from the parish of St. Ann in Jamaica, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Western Carolina University and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the American College of Education.
Racquel has 22 years of teaching experience, three at CDA.
I believe that teaching should be student-centered, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for learning. By creating an engaging and inclusive environment, I empower students to make meaningful connections, embrace challenges, and develop the confidence to succeed.
Amanda Kennon
Buist Academy
Amanda Kennon is a third-grade ELA and social studies teacher at Buist. Originally from Memphis, TN, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Art History from the University of Tennessee.
Kennon has 22 years of teaching experience including 14 years at Buist.
"My approach to teaching as a warm and caring teacher encourages my students to take risks and believe in their abilities. The supportive environment fosters confidence and motivation."
Bernard Blaney
Burke High School
Bernard Blaney is a Charleston native and science teacher at Burke. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina and a master's degree in Educational Leadership along with a Doctorate of Education from Charleston Southern University.
He has 17 years of teaching experience.
"You never stop being a student"
Anthony Yakes
Charleston Progressive Academy
Anthony Yakes is an elementary school physical education and health teacher at Charleston Progressive. Originally from Tinley Park, Illinois, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from Northern Illinois University and a master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction: Instructional Technology from Lewis University.
Anthony has 15 years of teaching experience, 4 years at Charleston Progressive.
"Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change."-Wayne Dyer
I am constantly looking at ways to innovate and inspire my students to be lifetime movers and learners. I also keep an open mind and heart when it comes to my students and meeting their academic and social/emotional needs. Finally, I also believe in leading by example and trying to be a role model in every aspect of my job.
Carletta Mustafaa
Simmons- Pinckney Middle School
Carletta Mustafaa is a seventh and eighth-grade AVID teacher at Simmons-Pinckney. Originally from Johns Island, she earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Fayetteville State University and is currently working towards a master’s degree in Literacy Education at The Citadel.
Carletta has 16 years of teaching experience, three at Simmons-Pinckney.
My teacher's love for reading and the quest for knowledge inspired me to want to ignite the same passion in my students that they sparked in me. If I could provide that same escape for my students afforded to me by my teachers and the books I read, then I know that I had made a difference in a student’s life. Hence, William Butler Yeats’ quote, "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire," resonates with me. I have always felt that igniting my students' desire to learn or read more would be the pinnacle of my accomplishment. Igniting my students' desire to want and seek more for themselves is all any educator can ask. Providing students with the tools they need to be empowered to advocate for themselves and take ownership of their learning has been my most fulfilling and rewarding experience as an educator.
Anna Cantu
James Simons Montessori School
Anna Cantu is a middle school Resource Teacher at James Simons. Originally from Denver, Colorado, she earned an undergraduate degree in Human Development from Messiah College and a master’s degree in Special Education from Regis University.
Cantu has 11 years of experience as a certified teacher, seven years as a teacher’s assistant, and has been at James Simons for three years.
"Every child deserves a champion - an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be." - Rita Pierson
Donya Amer
Memminger Elementary School
Donya Amer is a third-grade teacher at Memminger Elementary School. Originally from Mount Pleasant, SC, she earned a bachelor's degree in French and Business from Wofford College. In addition, she earned two master's degrees in Teaching and School Administration.
Amer has five years of teaching experience, all at Memminger.
My teaching philosophy centers around building strong, positive relationships with both students and their families. I believe that fostering these connections creates a supportive and nurturing environment where students feel valued and understood. When students feel supported academically, socially, and emotionally, they are more likely to thrive and reach their full potential. Through collaboration with families and a focus on individual needs, I strive to ensure that every student experiences success and growth in all areas.
Marvette Waddy is a kindergarten teacher at E.B. Ellington. She is a native Charlestonian and earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from South Carolina State University.
She has 27 years of teaching experience and 21 years at E.B. Ellington.
I love to teach kids to love to learn!
Sarah Young
Jane Edwards Elementary School
Sarah Young who is originally from Hollywood, SC, is a kindergarten teacher at Jane Edwards. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Carolina at Beaufort.
Young has eight years of teaching experience; this is her first year at Jane Edwards
I strive to be an effective teacher in all my interactions. However, teaching can be challenging. Being an effective educator means understanding who my students are both inside and outside the classroom. This is what makes the challenge so rewarding. The approach I use to teach is best described as building relationships with my students and showing them that I care for them and their education. Having a clear understanding of each of my students allows me to understand their way of learning and what best helps them achieve their goals.
Dr. LaToyna Smalls
Baptist Hill Middle/High School
Dr. LaToyna Smalls is a middle school Resource Teacher at Baptist Hill Middle High School. Originally from Parker’s Ferry, SC, she received a bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the College of Charleston.
Dr. Smalls continued her education earning a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Education in Special Education from Turner Theological Seminary and North Central University.
Dr. Smalls has 26 years of teaching experience, including three at Baptist Hill.
“Behind every successful student, there’s a teacher who never gave up.” - Author Unknown
ZaTaya Rivenbark
Minnie Hughes Elementary School
ZaTaya Rivenbark, who is originally from Hollywood, SC, is a kindergarten teacher at Minnie Hughes Elementary School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Winthrop University and a master’s degree in Multicultural Education from the University of South Carolina.
Rivenbark has three years of teaching experience, all at Minnie Hughes.
"Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." - John Dewey
