Lunch and Learn for Colleges and Universities
Representatives from 10 Upstate colleges and universities met with members of the GCS Human Resources Department to discuss various ways they can work together in hiring new teachers.
“We’re networking to present them with information about what we’re looking for in teacher candidates. We are building relationships with these colleges that have education programs and are responsible for training future teachers,” said Director of Professional Development Margaret Spivey.
“We hope this workshop will help you understand the challenges of having a qualified pool of teachers who have the skills to meet the needs of our district,” said GCS Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster.
Dr. Sonya Campbell, Principal of Alexander Elementary, said, “One of the biggest things we are looking for is a passion for children and a desire to help them get the foundation they need. We want to be sure our student teachers understand the profile of a South Carolina graduate, and to understand the three R’s – rigor, relevance, and relationships – which are the main components of being an educator.”
Campbell added that new teachers often need reminders about the different aspects of professionalism, being on time, and effective communication with parents and their peers.