State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman surprised North Vista Elementary School teacher, Mary Woodward, at her school with news that she has been selected as one of five finalists for the South Carolina Teacher of the Year award.  

"As a former music teacher, I know firsthand the important role that the arts play in a student's education experience," said Superintendent Spearman. Mary's ability to engage her students and integrate other subject areas in her classroom is remarkable. She is not only a leader in the Florence community but also for arts educators across our state." 

Mary Woodward is music teacher at North Vista Elementary School in Florence School District One.  She desires to “be the kind of teacher who opens doors for all children, but especially for children who have always believed certain doors were permanently closed to them.” Her classes include lessons in music history, music theory, music composition, music appreciation, and music performance. She also integrates math, science, literacy, and technology into every lesson. Her students develop an ear for music and create their own pieces through Woodward's classroom atmosphere that encourages creativity. 

“I read in Ms. Woodward’s application that she had teachers who were 'game-changers'.  Part of her becoming a teacher was to be a 'game-changer' for her students.  Ms. Woodward is an innovative and creative educator who looks for the talents in all children.  She is also mindful of the need to work collaboratively across all curriculum areas to provide each child a quality education,” said Florence School District One Superintendent Dr. Randy Bridges. 

As one of five finalists, Woodward will receive $10,000 and go on to the next stage of competition which involves an in-person interview with a team of expert judges. The South Carolina Teacher of the Year Gala will be held May 3rd in Columbia.  The overall winner receives a total of $25,000 and gets to drive a brand new BMW for one year while advocating for the teaching profession across the state.  

The Teacher of the Year program celebrates excellence and strengthens the teaching force by honoring and recognizing exceptional teachers on a district, state, and national level. These awards not only assist in retention efforts but serve as a powerful recruitment tool.

The South Carolina Teacher of the Year serves for one school year as a roving ambassador providing mentoring, attending speaking engagements, working with teacher cadets and teaching fellows, leading the State Teacher Forum, and serving as the state spokesperson for over 48,000 educators.