I want to nominate Kathleen Smith of Hunt Meadows Elementary School. Our family has been blessed to have her two times now. She's a kind and loving teacher that goes over and beyond to make each child feel special. No matter what life throws at her, she comes in every day with a smile and makes each child work hard to be the best. She provides a calm and happy classroom that allows children to thrive. She's a true blessing!

I want to nominate Cindi Wiener from Hunt Meadows Elementary School. Cindi is a wonderful and loving teacher. She provides a calming and happy classroom that allows her students to thrive. She works with each individual child to make sure they are at their highest potential. She gives them wonderful class projects to keep them engaged and excited about school. My child loves going to school because of her. She's not only just your child's teacher, she becomes a "school mom" and a good friend. She's a true blessing!

I would also like to nominate Kathleen Smith of Hunt Meadows. We have had the pleasure of having her for both of our girls for first grade. She has gone through some tough times, but never lets it get in the way of her teaching. She has instilled a love of reading within both my children that will last a lifetime. We have gained not only a teacher, but a friend in Kathleen as she truly care about each and every child and makes the parents feel as if she is a part of the family.

I would like to nominate Amy Godfrey of Hunt Meadows. She is my daughter's third grade teacher. My girl comes home from school so excited about what she has learned each day. We moved from MA 5 years ago, so I get to learn about SC history right along with her. She is so excited about everything they are learning that we are planning trips around the state this summer to see what she has learned about. She even stayed up late one night reading about the HL Hunely submarine from the civil war and we are making plans to go see it. She is wild about science and Mrs. Godfrey cultivates that excitement within them.

I would like to nominate Alyson Dyar from Crosswell Elementary. She encourages the students to do their best. She brings extra to classroom and she makes learning fun.

I want to nominate Regina Hudson, K5 Teacher at Taylors Elemetary. She is my Granddaughter Hayley's teacher this year. My Granddaughter is HIGHLY allergic to Hand Santizer and Anti Bacterial Soap, and Mrs Hudson has got to great lengths to make sure Hayley is not around it or exposed to any of it. She also makes learning for these children so fun for them. My granddaughter comes home everyday having learned something new. She has so much patience with these 5 & 6 year olds!!!!! She make sure she stays in contact with each and every parent. And is always available to meet with a parent, and she does it on the parents schedule not on her schedule.

I would like to nominate Ms. Pollard of Forest Acres Elemetary. She is a k-5 teacher,and has been great this year to my son Dylan helping with to improve with his basic skills so much.

Tracy Brandt at East End Elementary is one AMAZING teacher! She thinks of all the children at this school (not just her class) as her children. Her dedication during and afterschool is truly amazing. Teaching is her passion!!! Both my son and I are BLESSED to have had her this year!

I would like to honor Tracey Brandt at East End Elementary!! My child is a national honor student. I know it is all his teachers but she puts up with him now and that says a lot!! Thank you Mrs. Brandt for all you do!!!!!

Mrs. Susie Hughes at East End Elementary is the best k-5 teacher in the world!! She goes well over the need to help these kids! Awesome job Mrs. Hughes

I nominate Adam Scheuch, Director of Bands at Mauldin High School. Mr. Scheuch has developed a program that has the highest number of students than any other Greenville County high school recognized each year for acceptance to the Greenville All-County Honor Band. With his help our band has earned the Outstanding Performance Award, the highest award given to South Carolina bands, each of the last six years. We are very lucky to have him on our team!

I would like to nominate Yvonne Mason at Mauldin High School. She is an instructor of English there. My daughter had the priviledge of having Ms. Mason two years for two different classes. English/writing was not one of my daughter's strong suits. Through Ms. Mason's guidance she has blossomed in her writing skills. She also takes time to know, and understand her students. My child will always think fondly of Ms. Mason for her abilties and her heart. Thank goodness for teachers like Yvonne Mason.

Thanks for the Mauldin nominations myrc60 and Sharron!

I want to nominate Chris Brewington, 6th grade teacher at Gettys Middle School. Even though he is strict, he makes science interesting and applies it to their real life. His class includes hands on learning, and he reaches out to students who don't seem to grasp the material. He has given my child a new appreciation for science!

I would like to nominate Ms. Johnson at East End Elementary, this is her first year teaching and she has done a great job and my boy LOVES her. She is so good with the kids and also easy for me as the parent to talk to!

Tracy Brandt at East End Elementary is one of East End elementarys very special teachers! Ms. Brandt goes beyond her teaching duties with her children, she is not in the classroom just for a pay check, teaching is her passion and she shows it daily! My son is one of the very lucky children in her class this year! Thank you Ms. Brandt for being such a precious teacher!

I want to nominate Amanda Youngblood, 6th grade Language Arts teacher at Gettys Middle School. She is a teacher who recognizes each student for their individual talents. She starts each class with challenges on the board for students to get their minds going. She has created educational games to teach the students in a fun way. She has strict standards but is genuinely interested in each of her students' success.

Lynn Stanifer from East End Elementary is one of EEE very special teachers! Ms. Stanifer loves all her students, past and present with all her heart! My son had her 2 years ago and she made the biggest impression on us that will last a lifetime! She will never be forgotten in our household, Ms. Stanifer ROCKS!!!!!!!

My daughter and I would like to nominate Mrs. Norris from East End Elementary. Mrs. Norris made by daughter feel immediately welcome in her classroom as she came into the district in the middle of the year. Mrs. Norris' teaching abilities are superior and we wanted to shine a sweet light on Mrs. Norris for her outstanding work with East End Elementary's second grade class. She has touched my daughter's second grade life in a positive way. It was a joy for my daughter to have her this year. Thank you Mrs. Norris for all of your patience and hard work!

My daughter and I would like to nominate Mrs.H.Byars at East End Elementary.. She is a wonderful 1st grade teacher.

My son and I would like to nominate Mrs.Ellison at East End Elementary. She is a great 5th grade teacher. She is a very loving and caring teacher.

Thank you Easley for supporting your teachers! Keep them coming!

I would like to nominate Mrs. Amy McJinkin at East End Elementry. She is awonderful teacher. She also takes a interest in her students.

I would like to nominate Mrs.Juli Byars.She is awonderful caring first grade teacher

I would like to nominate Commander Denny Shelton and Master Chief Cliff Bailey, of MHS's NJROTC. In only three years, they have built an outstanding program, which my daughter, and her fellow cadets are enjoying immensely, and are so proud to be a part of. Also, it is to their credit that after actively serving our country, Commander and Master Chief nobly entered the education system. This makes them heroes twice over, and us very lucky indeed, that they decided to do so!

Deborah, Is that Juli Byars at East End in Easley?

I think Mrs. Hughes at East End is a wonderful teacher. My son loves having her for a teacher. I couldn't asked for a better entry into public school for him. I vote Susie Hughes East End Elementary School kindergarten teacher!!!!

I would also nominate Kim Vinson at Pickens Middle. My son has never. Even interested in ELA. According to my son she makes it fun and enjoyable. That says a lot coming from a sixth grader.

I would like to nominate Toshia Leisten at East End. She taught two of my children in 1st grade! She makes learning fun and exciting. My children always come home telling me about some silly, fun thing that she did! She creates a very warm and inviting environment and works hard to keep the parents involved. She is certainly a blessing to my family.

I would also like to nominate Sarah Camp at East End. She is my son's 3rd grade teacher this year. I have never seen my son take so much interest in Social Studies and History. He always talks about the adventures they go on during ss class. He can tell you the most random facts! She makes learning fun! Nathan enjoys going to school because Mrs. Camp is a blast! She does a fantastic job of making each and every child feel special. She is always challenging them to push their limits! She is a sweet blessing!

My son and I would love to nominate Ms. Page, a wonderful 4th grade teacher at East End Elementary!! She is the best teacher he has yet, I can't tell you how many times he has said, " I love my teacher"!! She goes above and beyond the call of duty and makes every student feel special in her class!

My daughter and I would like to nominate Mrs. Juli Byars! She is the most loving teacher, and lets each student know everyday just how special they are. My daughter loves her!

I would like to nominate Mrs Amy Byrd at Gettys Middle. She has taught my daughter for the last three years in chorus. She has always made sure my daughter who is in a wheelchair is able to participate in ALL choral events when others would have felt this was a burden. She makes each of her students feels special and loved!! AMY---your are the best teacher and we love you!!!

I would like to recognize Mrs. April Holliday and her wonderful teacher partner Mrs. Tricia Wiles, who teach K5 at East End Elementary in Easley. I can't tell you how grateful I am that my son has had the benefit of their influence this year. I appreciate their loving, caring, and nurturing spirits more than they'll ever know! These special ladies are truly one in a million!!!

I would like to nominate Sarah Camp my daughter's 3rd grade teacher at East End Elementary. My daughter is excited to go to school everyday because of Mrs. Camp. She makes learning exciting especially history. She encourages and challenges all of her students. I am very glad my daughter is in her class this year.

I would like to nominate Tracy Brandt at East End Elementary. When Ms. Brandt sends out her newsletter she always says " Her class Rocks", when in reality it's Ms. Brandt who "ROCKS"! Thanks Ms. Brandt for being such an AWESOME and Wonderful Teacher. !! We love you. The Deck Girls :)

I would like to nominate Mrs. Sarah Camp at East End Elementary. Her excitement and love for teaching shines through and makes learning fun for her students. I feel very fortunate that my son has been able to be in her class this year.

Lisa Keeler

I would like to nominate Juli Byars at East End Elementary in Easley. She has been such a blessing to our family! My daughter LOVES everything about first grade because of Mrs. Byars. She makes sure that each child feels love and support in all aspects of their lives!

Tyler and his mom would like to nominate Mrs Leisten 1st grade teacher @ East End Elem. If anyone deserves this honor she most definately does! She is such a wonderful teacher who puts her all into each day with all her students. She makes learning fun while keeping them on their toes to learn! Tyler is now, thanks to this wonderful teacher reading chapter books and doing so well this year! Thanks to a wonderful Mrs Leisten! Every school needs more Mrs Leisten's!

My son and I would like to nominate Mrs.Dove fourth grade teacher at East End Elementary. My son was diagnosed with dyslexia a few years back and without Mrs.Doves patience mad kindness I don't know where we would be. She has surpassed the normal expectations of most teachers. Thank you Mrs. Dove for not giving up on my,son when most teachers would have. We thank you from the bottom of our heart.

Keep those comments coming and be sure to tell your friends to login and post a comment!

I would like to nominate Susie Hughes from East End Elementary. My son requires special attention and Mrs. Hughes has worked so hard with him all year. She is always so caring and attentive to my son's needs. She also goes above and beyond to ensure I stay informed on his progress. Thank you so much Mrs Hughes for all you do, you are greatly appreciated!

I would like to nominate Mrs. Kristi Hunter from East End. She is an amazing teacher who cares not only about what her children learn but also about their feelings and self concept. My child loves coming to school everyday and has grown leaps and bounds this year. Thank you Mrs. Hunter for ALL you do and for being interested and invested in your students

We would like to nominate Mrs. Parks, 2nd grade teacher at East End Elementary! My daughter told me just this week that she loves Mrs. Parks because she makes it easy to learn! (Isn't that what every mom wants to hear?!) My husband and I feel that Mrs. Parks has had a tremendous impact in our daughter's life this year and we love her too! Thank you, Mrs. Parks, for all that you do! You are truely an angel- we are blessed that you are there with her each day!

Anderson District 1 schools are eligible to participate in this contest. Several schools within that district have Greenville, Easley or Powdersville addresses!

I would like to nominate Mrs. Dupre, 2nd grade teacher at East End Elementary. My son has had a bit of a rough year. He has trouble with reading and has also had some personal problems outside of the classroom. Mrs. Dupre has always been there to support him and has been very understanding through the ups and downs.In my opinion she is the BEST! I appreciate everything she has done and continues to do on a daily basis. And my son loves her. Keep up the good work Mrs. Dupre.

Michelle Hydrick
Michelle is a Master Teacher and John T. Simpson Alternative Center for Education. She is a "whatever it takes" type of teacher and person. She always goes the extra mile to help teachers, students, parents and administrators. Her comment is never "It's not my job," but rather, "What do you need me to do to help?" She makes the school a much better place to be for everyone. She has a heart for troubled students and reaches out to them academically and personally. She is a wonderful mentor to her peer teachers. She is invaluable to the success of our school.

Seeing some wonderful submissions as candidates for our top teacher! Please keep the comments coming. We want to hear about all of those wonderful teachers out there!

I would like to nominate Rebecca Page, 4th grade teacher at East End Elementary in Pickens County. She is so patient, kind, generous, trusting, and encouraging with each of her students. I have been in the classroom regularly this year, and have seen first-hand over and over again how she loves her students, and how they respond to her. She expects their very best, and the students happily and willingly give it. Education is more to her than simply passing facts and figures. She excites and inspires her students to love learning. We have been so blessed to have our son under her guidance this year.

I would like to nominate Mrs. Sarah Camp, 3rd grade teacher at East End Elementary. She goes above and beyond what anyone could possibly expect to help her students succeed. Our son was out of school for two months last year for medical reasons, and she took on the role of his homebound teacher so easily and willingly to help him keep up with his schoolwork. We appreciate her so much for the love and support she provided, and for preparing her students amazingly well for 4th grade. She is truly a gifted and exceptional teacher.

I would like to nominate Lynn Stanifer, 3rd grade teacher at East End Elementary. My daughter can't wait to tell me what she learned in her class each day. I enjoy the excitement in her voice as she tells me all about SC History. Mrs. Stanifer not only wants her students to be successful in 3rd grade but in their years ahead as well. We Love Her!!!!!

I would like to nominate Mrs. Susan Sill of Crosswell Elementary in Easley. She goes above & beyond for her students, makes all of them feel extremly special & encourages all of them to do the best. Always treats all the students the same & if they were her own. Mrs. SIll is AWESOME!!!

There is no way for me to express the appreciation that my family has to just one teacher. All the teachers who have touched the lives of my kids are exceptional !! They have taught, loved, supported, and pushed my kids to be the best they can be. If I listed them all, I would forget someone, so let me say to all the teachers who taught or teach Dru, Shannon, and Philip Duke thank you for all you do!

I want to give special praise to Ashley Pearson at Hunt Meadows. She has made my children LOVE art. They always come home quoting facts about artists and love to tell me about various forms of art. She's wonderful at what she does, and I appreciate that she can share her love with my kids.

Jackie Lindley of Hunt Meadows- YOU ROCK! My kids love you. They enjoy coming to class and they love coming home to play the cool educational websites you've exposed them to. Thank you for being a great teacher!

Ann Coon of Hunt Meadows- I love hearing the music you teach the children. They love music, they love singing, playing instruments, and doing fun stuff in your class. I thank you for all of your sweet musical productions, and the tears you've made me shed b/c of their cuteness. Thank you for your years at HME.

Mary Ann Gibson of Hunt Meadows. Many thanks for all of your work with making our kids LOVE books. They love going to the library. They love exploring the books. They love your author programs and the cool stories you read. My children love to read and love coming to the library. THANK YOU!

Nancy Langford of Hunt Meadows- Thank you for helping our kids love fitness. They have so much fun because you make it fun. You play with them, keep them moving, and educate them. Thank you for helping with our Fitness Walk and training the kids for that. You are a blessing!

Aileen Beck of Hunt Meadows- You are AMAZING. I have seen what you have done for the kids in your speech class. Children that were shy because of speech issues have blossomed under your help. My child LOVES going to speech and I never realized how much until I had to get him out of school early and he was upset b/c he would miss speech! Thank you for making it fun and for helping our children. You've helped my son and many others!

I would like to nominate Ms. Rebecca Page. She is a fantastic teacher and all the students love her. They always do their very best for her and are happy to be in her class.She is the best!

I want to nominate Susie Hughes at East End. My daughter just loves her! She takes so much time with each child, and helps them learn! My daughter loves Mrs. Hughes and enjoys going to school, because she makes it fun! Mrs. Hughes is always smiling and is so nice to talk to. She is my choice for teacher of the year!

My granddaughter is in Juli Byars class. She is a great teacher for first graders because she inspires them to love school. East End Elementary

iwould like to nominate mrs. herd and mrs. mckenzie

I would like to nominate Lynn Stanifer, 3rd grade teacher at East End Elementary. I am so glad that my granddaughter is in her class this year. She is an amazing teacher, and inspires my granddaughter, and everyone else in her class I'm sure, to do their best. She is a great teacher, and I appreciate everything that she has done this year to make it a success.

I would like to nominate Ms.Brenda Beth. She teaches 1st grade at Crosswell Elementary. We held our daughter back in 1st grade again. ms.Beth was her teacher for both years and went above and beyond her call of duty to
make her feel special and confident

I would like to nominate Mrs. Melissa Albertson at Crosswell Elementary School. My daughter had her in K5 when she took over for a teacher that left after having a baby. My daughter now has her for 1st grade. She is very passionaye about teaching and is very good with her students. I have helped in the classroom several times & went on a field trip. She handles her classroom so good and is very organized.

I nominate Mrs. Alyson Taylor, second grade teacher at Crosswell Elementary in Easley, SC. Our child had basically no interest in going to school or in learning. Mrs. Taylor is patient and has a wonderful sense of humor. She points out the positive things in each student and works with them to help them in every subject. One of the things I really like about Mrs. Taylor is that she stays in contact with us regarding how our child is doing...when things are going well and when things are not going as well as we might hope. Our child has improved in every subject and no longer dreads going to school, thanks to Mrs. Taylor's positive attitude, patience, and her love for her students.

I would like to nominate Mrs. H. Byars, 1st grade teacher, from East End Elementary. She has such passion for her students and the drive to make them find learning fun! We thank her for her dedication!!

I would like to nominate Mandy Spitzmiller. 5th grade teacher at East End Elementary. She is a wonderful, loving teacher who truly cares about each of her students. Emma has been blessed to have her twice, in third grade and this year. We love Mrs. Spitzmiller!!!!!

I would like to nominate Mr. David Owen. 5th grade teacher at East End. He is the BEST math teacher EVER!!!!!! My son had him when he was in 5th grade and now Emma has him for math. He goes above and beyond to help the students do their very best. We are thankful that he has been a part of our kids lives.

Mr. Bailey, English teacher at Easley High. My son has never enjoyed English until this year. He really enjoys being in Mr. Bailey's class. When you meet Mr. Bailey you can tell that he still loves teaching. Even after 30 years. I am very thankful that he is at Easley High.

Mrs. Ann Cleveland- GT teacher at East End. She is the best. She loves all her students as if they were her own. Emma got sick on their field trip this year and Mrs. Cleveland was up all night with her. We had to pick her up early and Mrs. Cleveland was more upset than Emma. Emma did not get to eat lunch with the group on the day they came back, so Mrs. Cleveland brought lunch to her this week at school. We love her!!!

Keep those nominations coming! You've come up with some wonderful candidates thus far!

Mrs. Susie Hughes and Mrs. Janet Holley, kindergarten teachers from East End Elementary are the best! My daughter loves them both. They go above and beyond in every possible way. We love Mrs. Hughes and Mrs. Holley!

Mrs. Susie Hughes at East End Elementary teaches my daughter and she LOVES her! Mrs. Hughes and Mrs. Holley are the sweetest and most caring teachers! So proud of what they have taught our little girl this year! Amazing!

Hopefully, the 3rd time I try to submit this will be the charm. I wanted to recognize Kay Hiott at Easley High School. I was in her 9th grade Honors English class back when she taught at Easley Junior High School. I vividly remember acting out scenes from Romeo and Juliet and studying some of the all time great novels such as The Outsiders and To Kill a Mockingbird. My daughter was placed into her 9th grade Honors English class this year. Two generations of our family have had the privilege of learning from Mrs. Hiott. I have been pleased that she has not lost her passion for teaching. I believe it has grown. It takes someone special to reach teenagers in the way that Mrs. Hiott can.

My daughter, Lydia, and I would like to nominate her wonderful teacher, Toshia Leisten, at East End Elementary. Lydia adores her and she jumps out of bed every morning ready to go to school. Mrs. Leisten has so much energy ~ she teaches using songs, chants, and cheers! She does a wonderful job of making every single student feel important. It takes a special person to keep it fresh day in and day out. Lydia says, "Mrs. Leisten is #1!"

My son, Benjamin, and I would like to recognize and nominate his wonderful teacher, Amy McJunkin, at East End Elementary. Mrs. McJunkin works wonders with her very large class of fourth graders. Benjamin has especially enjoyed science and social studies with her. I think she really understands how boys are put together and how they work. Benjamin has been so fortunate to have her this year and I think he is WELL prepared for 5th grade and beyond. Thank you, Mrs. McJunkin!!

I never saw who the winner was.?

We have named the winners in our Teacher Appreciation Contest. Check it out! http://patch.com/A-tQHY!