Mrs. Wallace is a strong leader, especially when it comes to instruction. Hunter Street teachers have grown into designers of learning during her time here. We think deeply about what we are teaching, dig deeply into standards, and are discerning about our material choices. As her time at Hunter Street comes to a close, she leaves a legacy of student-centered, designers of learning that will touch children for years to come.
Legacy is defined as the long-lasting impact of actions or events from a person's life. When thinking of Ms. Wallace's legacy, one only needs to look around this boardroom to see that she has impacted countless lives. She was the proud sixth-grade teacher of three YSD 1 principals. She was the principal who guided our Director of Human Resources to take a step into administration. While she often hides from the spotlight and always credits her team for any success, after 40 years in education, it is time to recognize Ms. Wallace for her lasting impact to our district and the community at large.
tion to providing the best education possible for her students.
In her time as Coordinator for Parenting Partnerships and the Family Resource Center, Mrs. Elliott has worked to expand outreach to families in our district in order to improve school readiness for all children. Her constant ability to think outside the box, to partner with community agencies and groups, and to recognize needs is nothing short of amazing. Her enthusiasm for the work of Parenting Partnerships is unmatched. From partnering with the Bush N Vine to hold registration events for ML families to taking the Early Connections bus on the road to the Walmart parking lot, Ms. Elliott is constantly striving to meet families where they are in order to provide the support they need. During COVID, she initiated Hands On-Minds On kits, which include a book, activities, and materials for interactive parent and child learning activities centered around a monthly theme. Distributing the packs from the sidewalk outside the Family Resource Center during the school closure was the beginning of this resource for families, which has now been sponsored by York Rotary as a service activity. From offering family Nights at the Museum, to partnering with the York Police Department for Child Safety Seat checks, to hosting walk and learn sessions at the York City Recreation Complex, she constantly lives out the district motto of being Connected as One in order to collaboratively reach parents where they are. Children are more connected with resources that promote school readiness; parents are connected with resources that strengthen the family unit and move them toward financial stability; and staff are inspired and educated to make needed connections to benefit students and families.
Ms. Angie Covington has consistently demonstrated exemplary commitment and innovation in her teaching practices, significantly impacting both our school community and the broader educational landscape in South Carolina. A fellow colleague stated, When I think of "The York Way," I picture Angie Covington.
She is the first to volunteer to jump into new initiatives and is always helpful to those who may follow her lead, always with a positive demeanor and displaying a work ethic like no other. Angie's work with ReDesign, Student-Centered Learning, and continued strengthening of the Engineering program by bringing the Siemen's curriculum to her Engineering students are only a few reasons why she is a Legacy Builder.
Ms. Sylvia McCoy, the first Parent Educator in YSD1, began her career in 2000. Throughout her tenure, she has adapted to the ever-changing world, consistently providing quality support to families and helping hundreds of children become school-ready. Parents continue to reach out to her, sharing their significant life moments and celebrations. Her 24 years with YSD1 as a certified Parent Educator with Parents as Teachers highlights her passion for ensuring families have the resources they need to prepare their children for school.
Olga Menendez has been a Parent Educator in YSD1 for five years. She exemplifies outstanding work ethic, professionalism, attitude, drive, and community service. Olga is passionate about early childhood education and comes to work each day with enthusiasm. During group connections, she is always ready to assist in any way possible.
Olga has built a strong rapport with the Spanish-speaking community by going above and beyond, such as attending Housing Authority meetings after hours and helping families understand medical diagnoses. She played a crucial role in restarting the ESL program in York through Tri-District Adult Ed. Olga is dedicated to embracing each family’s heritage and language while promoting English and reading.
As a dedicated educator, Ms. Lowry has left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students, embodying the qualities and characteristics that this award seeks to honor.
Ms. Lowry has tirelessly devoted her time, energy, and expertise to shaping young minds and nurturing the growth of our students for over 25 years. She has consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty, instilling a genuine love for learning, compassion, and resilience in all those fortunate enough to be in her classroom. Ms. Lowry has recognized the importance of adapting and evolving her instructional methods to meet all her students' unique needs.
Recognizing the importance of reaching her students on a deeper level, Ms. Lowry has embarked on a transformative journey to reshape her teaching approach. With unwavering dedication and a commitment to excellence, she has innovative techniques and alternative pedagogical practices to create a more effective learning experience for her students.
Through her self-reflection and professional development, Ms. Lowry realized that her previous instruction was not fully meeting the diverse learning needs of her students. Rather than being complacent, she proactively sought new strategies and approaches to better engage and support her students' growth.
The impact of Ms. Lowry's transformation is evident in the progress and enthusiasm displayed by her students. They are more actively engaged in their learning, demonstrating improved academic achievement, increased confidence, and a genuine passion for knowledge. Ms. Lowry's commitment to meeting her students where they are academically and emotionally has enabled them to make significant strides in their educational journey.
Her exceptional commitment to growth, adaptability and willingness to acknowledge the need for change and her subsequent transformation in instructional practices exemplify her dedication to providing the best education possible for her students.
Lisa Spangler and Amy Hagner deserve commendation for their exceptional work establishing the utility line worker program at Floyd D. Johnson Technology Center. In the fall of 2018, several of us attended a workforce seminar highlighting the imminent demand for line workers due to an aging workforce. As a result, we began to ponder the feasibility of creating our own utility line worker program on the Floyd D. Johnson Technology Center campus.
Amy and Lisa immediately assumed the lead on this initiative after. Despite facing challenges and skepticism during the initial stages, Lisa and Amy persevered. They navigated the complexities of establishing a public-private partnership, overcoming hurdles such as the program spanning district lines with Clover School District. Undeterred, they immersed themselves in learning the technical intricacies of the field, revisited partnerships, and, a year later, celebrated the groundbreaking in October 2019.
Today, the success of the utility linework program at FDJ stands as a testament to their dedication. Their efforts recently gained well-deserved recognition, as the program was celebrated on the Southern Regional Education Board's Promising Practices Podcast and Bulletin. This landmark achievement makes Lisa Spangler and Amy Hagner prime candidates for the recognition of York School District One Legacy Builder.
Additionally, a heartfelt thank you is extended to Dr. Greene and his staff for their ongoing dedication to the program's success since its inception.
Michelle has worked in York School District One for over 25 years and has been here at York Comprehensive High School for many of these years. Her performance as a Special Education Assistant Teacher is exceptional. She has a tremendous work ethic; she is dependable and very caring for our most vulnerable students. She has had perfect attendance for several years, showing up daily to work with the students in her classroom.
Michelle is an extraordinary assistant teacher at YCHS. The students in her class need constant attention because of their extraordinary challenges and she maintains a pleasant disposition and sense of purpose for helping all of her students. She comes to work every day with a smile on her face and infectious energy and enthusiasm for the students under her care. Her creativity, ability to relate to the students, and willingness to go the extra mile ensure her students have a positive and growth-oriented school experience. Michelle is anything but ordinary, she is an exemplar.
Michelle has a work ethic like no other individual. She arrives at work early with a smile on her face, positive attitude, and is always willing to go the extra mile with no questions asked. Michelle works with the most fragile students in our district who need very personal care and she does it with the most love. Michelle is a constant model of the YSD1 district’s beliefs and commitments.
Dr. Witte’s role as the York Middle School Instructional Coach, plays a pivotal role in fostering the positive climate and culture we aim to establish within our school and district. By creating an inclusive and welcoming learning environment while working with adults and students alike, she sets the tone for collaboration and open communication among students, staff, and community. Dr. Witte understands the importance of diversity and actively incorporates diverse perspectives into her teaching and coaching practices, promoting a sense of belonging for all. She prioritizes the social and emotional well-being of students, recognizing that a supportive atmosphere enhances learning outcomes. Through innovative teaching methods and a commitment to continuous improvement, Dr. Witte inspires a growth mindset and a culture of lifelong learning within our adult learners and students. By modeling empathy, integrity, and enthusiasm for education, Dr. Witte contributes significantly to the development of a positive educational climate that empowers students to thrive academically and personally.
Dr. Witte consistently exhibits an outstanding work ethic, professionalism, and an unwavering drive to uplift the educational experience. Her commitment to excellence, which is our York Middle School focus for the year, is evident in the meticulous planning and execution of co-teaching lessons, as well as in their responsiveness to the diverse needs of students. With a positive attitude that radiates enthusiasm for learning, she inspires colleagues and students alike. Dr. Witte goes above and beyond by actively engaging in professional development, staying abreast of educational advancements, and continuously refining her teaching methods. Moreover, her dedication extends beyond the classroom, as she enthusiastically participates in community service initiatives, such as serving on the Strategic Change Agenda Committee, involvement in literacy initiatives in the community, and on the board for the Public Library; Dr. Witte is demonstrating a genuine concern for the well-being of the broader community. Through her exemplary work ethic, professional demeanor, optimistic attitude, and commitment to community service, this educator serves as a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for positive change within the educational landscape.
