District celebrates educators during Teacher Appreciation Week

Charleston County School District (CCSD) is honoring teachers May 3–7, 2021 during Teacher Appreciation Week. Teacher Appreciation Day is Tuesday, May 4, 2021. Educators are being recognized at the school and district level for their continued commitment to the children of CCSD.

“Our teachers and staff have been the difference maker this year,” said Michelle Simmons, Associate Superintendent of Elementary Learning Community. “They showed up on behalf of students and delivered each and every day. We couldn’t be more grateful for their resilience, professionalism, and ingenuity.”

At the school and district level, teachers will be showered with surprises and treats to thank them for all that they do.

“I am inspired by those who are humble and selflessly give of themselves in order to support a vision that is for the good of others,” said Dr. Joe Williams, Associate Superintendent of Middle and Secondary Learning. “Our CCSD teachers and school staff have been my biggest source of inspiration this year, for being courageous and doing what was right for children. As our children look back and reflect on this pandemic experience in the years to come, they will always remember the courage and grace that these amazing educators have shown. They are the best!”

Janet Brown, Principal at Ladson Elementary School explained that this year teachers have been pushed to their limits physically, mentally, and emotionally as they faced the challenges brought on by teaching during a pandemic.

“This school year has tested the passion and perseverance of every teacher yet they have risen to the occasion time and time again,” said Brown. “What I have seen is nothing short of miraculous. When we thought teachers couldn’t love their children any more than they already did, they showed us they could. They made sure every child knew they were smiling, even if they couldn’t see that smile through the teacher’s mask. They made sure every student felt loved, even if they couldn’t hug them.”

Jerry Zucker Middle School Principal Jacob Perlmutter believes that a school is only as good as its teachers.

“Great teachers equal a great school,” said Perlmutter. “This year our teachers have done (and are still doing) heroic work under stressors that are hard to even explain. If our communities reflect the values and resilience of our teachers, our future is bright!”

“When we thought teachers couldn’t work any harder than they already did, they put in extra hours to make sure they connected with each and every student and their families whether virtual or in-person,” Brown added. “They embraced the plexiglass and made it a fun part of everyday instruction.”

Zucker teacher Tasherkia Manigault described her co-workers as resilient.

“Although this school year has been challenging, great teachers learn to adapt to these challenges and persevere, continuing to educate the impressionable minds of students, and for that we celebrate,” said Manigault. “We are committed and to ensuring that every student is valued because dreams weigh more than excuses.”

In addition, Brown explained, her teachers helped students see that they could still love school and enjoy learning even though it was different.

“They showed up every single day,” Brown said. “Yes, there were tears shed for what used to be but they never let it show. The only thing that showed was love for the children and a love of the job. This year, more than any other, I appreciate every teacher, assistant, cafeteria worker, custodian, and support staff member. However, it’s probably more accurate to say that I admire and remain in awe of them every day. They are my heroes.”

About the Charleston County School District

Charleston County School District (CCSD) is a nationally-accredited school district that is committed to providing equitable and quality educational opportunities for all of its students. CCSD is the second-largest school system in South Carolina and represents a unique blend of urban, suburban, and rural schools spanning 1,300 square miles along the coast. CCSD serves more than 50,000 students in 87 schools and specialized programs.

CCSD offers a diverse, expanding portfolio of options and specialized programs, delivered through neighborhood, magnet, IB (international baccalaureate), Montessori, and charter schools. Options include programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); music and other creative and performing arts; career and technical preparation programs; and military.