Greenville Federal Credit Union Honors Two Emerging Teachers of the Year
Two outstanding second- or third-year teachers have been recognized as 2020-21 Emerging Teachers of the Year. They are Julia McKissick, School Counselor at Lake Forest Elementary, and Mark Crain, Firefighting Instructor at Enoree Career Center. They were presented with awards and prizes today by Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster during a surprise visit to their classrooms.
Greenville Federal Credit Union serves as the presenting sponsor for the Emerging Teachers of the Year Program. Each winner receives $500, a crystal award, and $500 for his/her school. Additional sponsors include the Bank of Travelers Rest, Chick Fil-A of Greer, Expressions Unlimited, Herff Jones of SC, and T-Mobile.
Elementary Level
Julia McKissick, School Counselor
Lake Forest Elementary School
Lake Forest Elementary School Counselor Julia McKissick teaches students mindfulness strategies to deal with difficult situations as part of the school’s social-emotional learning program. She is able to diffuse stressful situations because of her calm demeanor. In addition to her role as school counselor, Ms. McKissick plans the school-wide Career Day, coordinates Backpack Buddies, hosts an Angel Tree during the holidays, and helps students in need receive coats in the winter. She is a champion and advocate for all students and has built strong relationships with students, families, and staff.
Secondary Level
Mark Crain, Firefighting Instructor
Enoree Career Center
Mark Crain has a sacrificial work ethic, putting others before himself. He decided after a 20-plus year career as an interior structural firefighter to step into the classroom. During class breaks, he talks to students, getting to know them by name. His ability to develop meaningful lessons, his gift for meeting students where they are, and then to have students excel at incredible levels, is outstanding for a second-year teacher. Because of his ability to make connections with students, Mr. Crain turned a once-floundering program into one of the most sought-after courses at Enoree.