American Education Week - Educator Appreciation Day
- Ninety-nine percent of our teachers are highly qualified content experts.
- GCS boasts more National Board Certified Teachers (646) than 24 states, and we rank 14th of the nation’s 14,000 school districts for total number of NBCTs.
As part of American Education Week, we honor the certified educators who serve in our schools. Certified educators include classroom teachers, guidance counselors, media specialists, instructional coaches, assistant principals, and principals. They come to school with a desire to make a difference in the lives of the young people. They inspire and engage students, making a positive impact on lives.
Ashley Bentley, Fifth Grade, Greenbrier Elementary
Ashley Bentley was enthralled from her first day of teaching at the prospect of sharing content-based instruction. Over the last couple of years, she has realized how integral a teacher is in helping a child have a well-balanced childhood. “I feel rewarded when our students succeed not only in their academics, but in developing their character. Every person who walks through those doors is showing up to work to help mold a community. I cannot think of a more rewarding career!” she said.
Jessica Richardson, Spanish, Travelers Rest High
Jessica Richardson meets the challenges of education in today’s classroom with determination and skills. She models respect, personal commitment, and caring for students. She uses technology effectively to help fill the gaps between the culture of her students and those of other countries. In addition to her role as a Spanish teacher, Jessica assists with the robotics team, Beta Club, and Faculty Council at Travelers Rest High.
Kelly Hellams, Principal, Summit Drive Elementary
“The most rewarding part of my job as principal is working with the staff to meet the needs of our diverse population and to inspire teachers to discover new strategies that will make a difference in students’ lives.” said Kelly Hellams, principal of Summit Drive Elementary. Her staff focuses on professional development to understand our various cultures, build strong relationships with families, and develop high expectations for student success. “I am proud to know the students are surrounded by compassionate, loving teachers who care deeply about every child and their success,” said Kelly.
Jason Warren, Principal, Greenville Sr. High Academy
Jason Warren recently moved from Beck Middle Academy to Greenville High Academy. He says the most rewarding part of his job is the opportunity to interact with stakeholders. “It is fantastic when I see business partners, community organizations, students, parents, and staff working together for the good of the students,” he explained.
Warren recalls a moment in 2011 when Beck Academy earned an Excellent on the School Report Card for the first time. “It made me very proud to be the leader of that school. I had seen so many changes over the years and saw all the hard work that went into creating a successful school,” he said.
Monday - School Support Staff Appreciation Day
Tuesday - Bus Transportation Appreciation Day
Greenville County Schools Celebrates American Education Week
November 17-21 Recognizes Public School Employees
Greenville County Schools will celebrate American Education Week with other schools and districts across the nation during the week of November 17-21. The theme, Raise Your Hand for Student Success! reinforces the fact that all employees, from teachers to food service to custodians, are actively involved in provide a quality education for our students.
Greenville County Schools, the nation’s 45th largest school district, understands and encourages the active involvement of parents, volunteers, and the community as our more than 5,000 teachers inspire young people to reach for the stars and build plans for their futures.
Schools will host special events during the week to spotlight teachers and other staff. Parents and other community members are invited to visit a local school to observe the outstanding students, staff and programs of Greenville County Schools.
About Greenville County Schools
Nationally Accredited School District
- Greenville County Schools received National Accreditation from the AdvancED Accreditation Commission, recognizing the school system as a high quality school district and granting full accreditation to the school district and all of its schools.
- Largest District in SC; 45th Largest in Nation
- More than 72,000 Students in Grades K-12
Student Facts
- The GCS Class of 2014 received $113.9 million in college scholarships.
- About 10,000 students (15%) attend school on choice, making GCS the state leader.
- GCS students consistently outperform the state and nation on the ACT college entrance test.
Employee Facts
- About 9,500 Employees; About 5,000 Teachers
- 99% of teachers are highly qualified content experts.
- GCS boasts more National Board Certified Teachers (659) than 24 states, and we rank 14th of 14,000 school districts in the nation for total number of NBCTs.
Schools - 100
- Elementary - 51
- Middle - 20
- High - 14
- Centers - 17 (Career, Child Development, Special)