Overview
South Carolina faces two converging challenges for the future of its students and workforce: first, a critical shortage of public-school educators, particularly in STEM areas; and second, the changing nature of jobs requiring an advanced understanding of STEM content areas and the skills required to tackle complex problems. The state will need to significantly increase its number of STEM educators in order to meet the demands of an evolving economy.
The STEM Educator of the Year award is a prestigious, statewide recognition of South Carolina educators. This award is for teachers who are making a significant difference in the lives of students across the state by providing excellent curriculum, encouraging lifelong learning and inspiring a passion for STEM beyond the classroom. Thanks to support from our partners, Comporium and Bojangles, the winner will receive a $2,500 cash prize and each of the remaining 4 finalists will receive $1,000.
The STEM Educator of the Year award is a prestigious, statewide recognition of South Carolina educators. This award is for teachers who are making a significant difference in the lives of students across the state by providing excellent curriculum, encouraging lifelong learning and inspiring a passion for STEM beyond the classroom. Thanks to support from our partners, Comporium and Bojangles, the winner will receive a $2,500 cash prize and each of the remaining 4 finalists will receive $1,000.
Timeline
The nomination form will be open from September 2, 2024 – November 1, 2024. Nominated educators will be sent the application on or before November 11, 2024. Applications will be due no later than January 17th. Interviews with the finalists will be scheduled in early March 2024. A winner will be selected and announced at STEM Day at the Capitol, on April 2, 2025.
Criteria
Eligibility
The next STEM Educator of the Year will demonstrate:
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2025 SC STEM Educator of the Year Winners
Statewide Winner
Angelique Piotrowsky
Math (Algebra 2) Teacher GREEN Upstate High School, SC Public Charter School District |
Regional Finalist
Angela Fletcher
Gateway to Technology Teacher Hanahan Middle School, Berkeley County School District |
Regional Finalist
Crystal Blanton
Math Interventionist & Math Coach Lugoff-Elgin Middle School, Kershaw County School District |
Regional Finalist
Katelyn Tobrocke
Project Lead the Way STEM Teacher Socastee Elementary, Horry County School District |
Regional Finalist
Michelle Spigner
Biology II, AP Biology, AP Research Teacher Spring Valley High School, Richland 2 School District |