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.  
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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. 
2026 Timeline
The nomination form will be open from September 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025. Nominated educators will be sent the application on or before November 14, 2025. Applications will be due no later than January 9, 2026. Interviews with the finalists will be scheduled in late February 2026. A winner will be selected and announced at STEM Day at the Capitol on March 25, 2026. ​

Requirements

Eligibility
  • Must be a full-time, active, certified classroom teacher. ​
  • Must teach at a public or private K-12 school in South Carolina. 
  • Must spend the majority of the school day involved in direct instruction to students. 
  • Must show involvement and leadership in student-related extra-curricular activities. 
  • Must be teaching at least 3 years. 
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The next STEM Educator of the Year will demonstrate: 
  • Integrity – Be honest, trustworthy, reliable, and respected by students, parents, co-workers, and community members. 
  • Interpersonal Skills – Be able to exemplify a true passion for STEM education.
  • Global Perspective – Be able to inspire students to see that STEM is all around us. 
  • Work Ethic – Be able to engage students in the classroom and prepare them for education and careers outside the classroom.
  • Self-Direction – Be able to explain personal teaching philosophy and implement effective teaching strategies.

2025 SC STEM Educator of the Year Winners

Statewide Winner
Angelique Piotrowsky
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Math (Algebra 2) Teacher

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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
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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 

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