Two Richland One educators named University of South Carolina’s Champions of Education

Two Richland One educators were named 2024 Champions of Education by the University of South Carolina’s College of Education. Both were honored during the university’s Champions of Education Gala March 28.

H.B. Rhame Elementary School reading interventionist Stephanie Johnson received the Veteran Teacher Award, which is given to a teacher who has been in the profession for at least 15 years and that their work incorporates best practices in helping students
succeed.

H.B. Rhame Elementary School reading interventionist Stephanie Johnson; Dreher High School director of orchestras Adam Rafferty

“Words cannot express how humbled and proud I am to receive this recognition. I dedicate this award to all the educators across South Carolina and the country,” said Johnson.

Dreher High School director of orchestras Adam Rafferty received the Outstanding New Teacher Award, which is given to a teacher who has been in the profession for no more than five years but has demonstrated a strong ability to foster excellence in the classroom.

“I was humbled and honored to represent new teachers at the Champions of Education Gala. It was very surprising to me that I was the winner. I’m proud of the work that I do and enjoy teaching orchestra at Dreher High School and my beginning strings class at South Kilbourne Elementary,” said Rafferty.