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The finalists are Michele Eastham, business teacher at Hilton Head Island High School; Kelly Hall, theater teacher at Robert Smalls Leadership Academy; Feronica Hamilton-Pierce, English teacher at Whale Branch Early College High School; Siobhan McCann, librarian at Okatie Elementary School; and Susan Seckinger, literacy coach at Port Royal Elementary School.

he South Carolina Department of Education has released the 2025-2026 English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics SC READY assessment data for students in grades 3-8. As the state and Beaufort County School District (BCSD) continue the mission to ensure that at least 75% of students are performing at or above grade level by 2030, these results highlight both successes and areas for continued focus.

Brenda Blue of Pritchardville Elementary School has been named the District Principal of the Year. Cassandra Ryman of Hilton Head Island Elementary IB School has been named the District Assistant Principal of the Year.
 

“Every exceptional district has strong school leaders, and I’m excited to see this superb educator be successful in her new role,” Rodriguez said. “She’s experienced and understands the importance of creating a district and school culture of moving academic achievement and ensuring our students succeed.”

 
All BCSD teachers will receive a $2,500 increase, in addition to a state-mandated step increase, and the teacher salary schedule will be expanded to a maximum step of 31. These changes are designed to strengthen BCSD’s ability to attract high-quality teachers and retain experienced educators who support student achievement.

Pritchardville Elementary is one of only three schools statewide selected for this recognition, joining Blue Ridge High School in Greenville County and Lugoff-Elgin Middle School in Kershaw County.
 

The approved budget is fully funded with projected revenues of $395.3 million and does not include a millage increase, reflecting a fiscally responsible approach while still making significant investments in staff and student needs.

“Every exceptional district has strong school leaders, and I’m excited to see these superb educators be successful in their new roles,”