Share and Follow
In an unexpected turn of events, Ellen Weaver, the South Carolina State Superintendent of Education, made an impromptu appearance at two schools in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) last Friday, delivering delightful news to two outstanding educators.
Kaitlyn Rhodes and Dr. Christie Palladino were taken by surprise when Weaver announced that they were among the five finalists for the prestigious State Teacher of the Year award. Along with this honor, each received a generous $10,000 prize, a testament to their dedication and impact in the classroom.
“We all have that one teacher who made a lasting impression on us,” Weaver reflected with a smile. “Recognizing these teachers who make a difference every day is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role.”
Kaitlyn Rhodes, who imparts her knowledge of agriculture at the Governor’s School for Agriculture in McCormick, is no stranger to the world of education. With three years of teaching experience, Rhodes comes from a family deeply rooted in the educational field. “Education is in my blood,” she shared with NewsChannel 6. “My mother devoted 33 years to teaching, my sister-in-law is a teacher, and my husband also teaches agriculture. It’s wonderful to share our passion for education across the state.”
“I’m filled with a family full of educators. My mom was an educator for 33 years. My sister in law is a teacher, my husband’s an Ag teacher. So we’re filled with education, so it’s always good to be able to share that with the rest of the state.”
Dr. Christie Palladino is a biomedical science teacher at Aiken County Career and Technology Center. 12 years ago she left a career as an OBGYN to teach, which she said was the right move.
“The business of medicine and I were not perhaps the best fit. And I really just felt like I wanted something that had a broader public impact,” Dr. Palladino explained. “And I started teaching an evidence based medicine course and the more I taught, the more I enjoyed it. And I felt like it was the way I can make an impact with a lot of people still talking about something I love.”
Both teachers were honored to be chosen as finalists.
Really excited that happened here. I know it sounds strange, but we’re here for outreach and that’s just such a big part of what our program does. So that was really special,” said Dr. Palladino.
The next step for the finalists is an interview with a panel of judges.
“We will have a big gala at the governor’s mansion in April, where we will announce our new South Carolina Teacher of the Year. And it’s such a wonderful way to just celebrate the incredible energy and commitment that these amazing teachers bring to their students every day,” Weaver said.
The winner will receive $25,000 and a new BMW. They will also serve for a year as an ambassador and state spokesperson for more than 65,000 educators.
The South Carolina State Teacher of the year will be announced April 23.