Laurens County Educator Cathy Easter Named STAR Teacher by Palmetto State Teachers Association
February 15, 2026
A Laurens County School District 56 (LCSD 56) educator is receiving statewide recognition for her dedication to students and excellence in the classroom.
Earlier this week, Cathy Easter, who teaches English I and ProTeam in LCSD 56, was honored as a STAR Teacher by the Palmetto State Teachers Association (PSTA). Toni Chewning, representing PSTA, visited the school to personally recognize Mrs. Easter and celebrate the achievement with faculty and staff.
The STAR (Sharing Teaching, Advancing Results) program recognizes outstanding veteran educators from across South Carolina. Selected teachers are given opportunities to collaborate with peers statewide, expand professional networks, and engage in advanced professional development aimed at strengthening classroom instruction and student success.
Mrs. Easter was chosen as one of only a small number of educators statewide to participate in the program — a distinction that reflects her commitment to teaching excellence and the impact she has on her students and the LCSD 56 community.
District leaders noted that while the recognition may be new at the state level, Mrs. Easter’s colleagues and students have long known the value she brings to the classroom each day.
“We have always known that Mrs. Easter is a STAR teacher,” school officials shared. “We are glad the rest of the state will get to see it now.”
The recognition highlights not only Mrs. Easter’s individual accomplishments but also the high caliber of educators serving students across Laurens County School District 56.
