Upstate Parent's 2024 Educators Who Make a Difference

Each year, Upstate Parent features local educators who set the standard for what it means to influence the future. These professionals – classroom teachers, administrators and more – love their students, encourage them and pave the way for their success. And as the photos show, they love what they do.

In many ways, this group represents the many others who are also at their desks long after the school day ends, who spend their own money to make sure each student has what they need, who cry and celebrate with parents and who know their work is an investment.

They deserve our continued support and encouragement. Join us in celebrating these – and all – educators who make a difference in their schools and in our community.

Click on the links to meet our 2024 Educators Who Make a Difference

Melissa Bean: ESOL, Lakeview Middle School 

Matt Critell: Principal, Bethel Elementary

Dori Helms: Jesse Boyd Elementary, Special education specialist

Ashleigh Ledford: Music teacher, Sterling School and Charles Townes Center

Karen McBride: Language Arts, R. P. Dawkins Middle School

Angela Raines: First Grade, East North Street Academy

Dr. Michela Rice: Academic Dean, Meeting Street Academy

Ronda Simmons: Principal, Thomas E. Kerns Elementary

Thomas Webster: Principal, Drayton Mills Elementary School

Jennifer Woody: Principal, Summit Drive Elementary School

From The Archives: 2023 Upstate Parent Educators Who Make a Difference

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Upstate Parent's 2024 Educators Who Make a Difference