Nashari Williams of Greenwood’s School of Inquiry–Hodges Elementary has advanced as a finalist in the South Carolina Teacher of the Year competition, according to the S.C. Department of Education.
Based on a release from S.C. Dept. of Education.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Nashari Williams, a second-grade teacher at Greenwood’s School of Inquiry–Hodges Elementary, has been named a finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year, according to the S.C. Department of Education.
Williams holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s in Diverse Teaching and Learning, both from Lander University, according to the department. She designed a second-grade economics unit that culminated in a school-wide “Market Day” event giving students hands-on experience with entrepreneurship and financial literacy, the department said. Her students have shown NWEA MAP results of 70% mastery or higher, according to the department.
“Nashari Williams reminds us that the very best educators don’t just teach — they transform,” State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver said. “Shaped by her mother’s example in a special needs classroom and a childhood filled with a deep love of learning, Nashari knows firsthand the power of patient guidance, unwavering support, and a nurturing school environment.”
“Being named a South Carolina State Teacher of the Year finalist is an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to the dedication, passion, and impact that Mrs. Nashari Williams has on students every day at Hodges Elementary School,” said Greenwood 50 Superintendent Shane Goodwin.
As a finalist, Williams will receive $10,000 and advance to an interview with a panel of judges, according to the department. The overall winner will receive $25,000 and the use of a BMW for one year while serving as a roving ambassador and state spokesperson for more than 65,000 educators, the department said.
The winner of the State Teacher of the Year competition will be announced April 23 in Columbia, according to the department.
