Greenville County Schools Announces Top 10 Teacher of the Year Finalists

Greenville County Schools Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster surprised ten GCS teachers with the announcement that they have been named the Top 10 Finalists for 2026-27 GCS Teacher of the Year.

Congratulations to these deserving teachers who are the top ten teachers out of approximately 6,000 teachers across the district!

“These ten educators represent the very best of what it means to serve students with purpose,” said GCS Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster. “In every classroom, they are building the academic and life skills of successful college-and career-ready students with a collective commitment to excellence. Their influence reaches far beyond a single lesson or school year; it leaves a lasting mark on the lives of the students they serve and strengthens our entire community.”

The process of selecting the ten finalists began last fall when schools and centers selected their individual Teacher of the Year. Teachers interested in being considered for the GCS Teacher of the Year then completed an extensive application that was reviewed by Screening Committees and a Judges Selection Committee. The Top 10 Finalists will be narrowed down to three finalists and the 2026-27 Greenville County Schools Teacher of the Year through in-person interviews and classroom observations. The 2026-27 Teacher of the Year will be announced on August 6.

Special thanks to our generous sponsor, Greenville Federal Credit Union, who provided a $100 Visa Gift Card, a picnic/stadium blanket, and an umbrella to each of the Top 10 Teacher of the Year Finalists.