News Releases

Learning is about curiosity, problem-solving, and discovery—and Jennifer Nelson works alongside students and teachers at Hampton County High School to develop not just content knowledge, but a bank of skills they can apply in any setting. Her passion for STEM education and now instructional coaching has made her a finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year.

Teaching wasn’t always Corey Bedenbaugh’s plan—he once considered becoming a lawyer. But after realizing the profound influence his own teachers had on his life, he changed course. Today, as an eighth-grade social studies teacher at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School, he is making that same impact on his students. Now, he’s a finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year. 

For Terri Ivester, reading is more than a skill—it’s a gateway to opportunity. As a Reading Coach at Starr Elementary School, she helps students discover the joy of literacy while also mentoring fellow educators. Her leadership has now made her a finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year.

Taylor Carvajal’s connection to her students runs deep. Inspired by her legally blind grandparents, she has spent her career ensuring blind and deaf students have the tools they need to succeed at the South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind. Now, her dedication has earned her a spot as a finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year. 

Before children learn to read or write, they learn to speak—and for some, that first step requires extra help. Miranda Grice, a Speech-Language Pathologist at Lexington Four Early Childhood Center, has dedicated her career to ensuring every child has a voice. Now, her impact has made her a finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year.