News Summary
Morgan Smith, a fifth-grade teacher, has been awarded Teacher of the Year by Greenville County Schools, showcasing the district’s commitment to educational excellence.
Greenville, South Carolina – Morgan Smith, a fifth-grade teacher at Robert E. Cashion Elementary School, has been honored as the 2025-26 Teacher of the Year by Greenville County Schools. The announcement was made during a celebration event held on August 7, 2023, showcasing the dedication and talent of educators within the district.
The Teacher of the Year selection process involved participation from approximately 6,000 teachers across Greenville County, who each nominated their own teacher of the year last fall. Following these nominations, a screening and selection committee evaluated the submissions to identify finalists. In March 2023, ten outstanding educators were announced as finalists for the prestigious Teacher of the Year award.
During the celebration event, not only was Smith recognized, but the district also acknowledged two first-year teachers with the 2025-26 First Class Teacher Award, sponsored by Public Education Partners and Auro Hotels. Furthermore, the Emerging Teachers of the Year award was introduced to honor second- or third-year teachers for their exceptional contributions, sponsored by Greenville Federal Credit Union.
Dr. Burke Royster, Superintendent of Greenville County Schools, highlighted the remarkable teaching and commitment exhibited by educators recognized at the event. Alongside Smith, the runners-up for the Teacher of the Year award included Meagan Wagner, an English teacher at Riverside High School; Candance Brownlee-Collins, a fourth-grade teacher at Hollis Academy; and Tieraney Gezelle Rice, a 4K teacher at Monarch Elementary School.
Innovative Teaching Practices
Morgan Smith’s educational approach emphasizes the “graduation plus” initiative, designed to equip students with vital skills for their future beyond the classroom. Her classroom is characterized by the inclusion of guest speakers from various professions, exposing her students to a range of career pathways and educational opportunities. Smith also adapts teaching materials and language to support English learners, fostering an inclusive environment. The incorporation of technology plays a significant role in her instructional strategies, further enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.
A Celebration of Excellence
The ceremony celebrating the accolades can be viewed on the Greenville County Schools Facebook page, showcasing the achievements of these dedicated educators. By recognizing outstanding teaching performance, the district emphasizes its commitment to educational excellence and the upliftment of students throughout the community.
Background on Greenville County Schools
Greenville County Schools is a large school district serving a diverse student population across the Upstate of South Carolina. The district is committed to fostering student growth through various initiatives and programs aimed at preparing students for future success. Annually, the Teacher of the Year award serves as a platform to honor exceptional teachers who demonstrate dedication, innovation, and a profound impact on their students’ lives.
This year’s celebration not only honored Smith but also reminded attendees of the collaborative efforts among educators to enhance the educational landscape in Greenville County. By recognizing teachers’ achievements, the district aims to inspire current and future educators, ensuring that quality education remains a priority.
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Online
- Wikipedia: Greenville County Schools
- Greenville Journal
- Google Search: Greenville County Schools Teacher of the Year
- Fox Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Audacy News
- Google News: Greenville County Schools 2025
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
