District Five special education teacher named American Legion Teacher of the Year

Spring Hill High School special education teacher Olivia McCartney has been named The American Legion, Department of South Carolina 2018 Teacher of the Year. McCartney was nominated by her principal Dr. Michael Lofton and Post 193 in Chapin.

“I am truly honored to receive this award. This recognition confirms that I am on the right track of leading my students,” McCartney said. “It gives me the confidence to continue advocating for my students and challenging them in new ways every day.”

As a special education teacher, McCartney believes it is her job to unlock the special skills in all students. She says it is important to celebrate those strengths and share them with the Spring Hill High community in order to promote acceptance.

“I believe that students should learn from ‘doing’, not only in the classroom, but in the community as well,” McCartney said.

McCartney also was named Spring Hill High’s teacher of the year for the 2018-2019 school year in February.

“We are so proud that Ms. McCartney is a part of our Spring Hill High family. She truly cares about her students and profession,” Lofton said. “She exhibits top notch character and brings out the best in every one she comes in contact with. Not only are we excited that she represents our school as teacher of the year, but now the entire state in the American Legion organization!”

The award will be presented to McCartney during the Department Convention Awards Luncheon on June 1. The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to fellow service members and veterans.