York educator in running for SC teacher of year title
York teacher Richard Whitmore has been named one of five finalists for the South Carolina Teacher of the Year award, a release states.
“Rick demonstrates everyday the importance of students not only having the content knowledge to be successful but also the global perspective that helps make students productive citizens and lifelong learners,” State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman said in a prepared statement.
Whitmore teaches Spanish at York Comprehensive High School. He has been teaching for 15 years, according to the York school district.
Whitmore earned his bachelor’s in international studies from Ohio State University and a master’s in Spanish from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, the release states.
As a finalist, Whitmore will receive $10,000. Following interviews with a team of judges, the winner will be announced at a gala later this year, according to the school district.
The South Carolina Teacher of the Year receives $25,000 and a new car to use while serving as a state ambassador for a year, the release states.
Whitmore learned of the news during a video call with York school district Superintendent Kelly Coxe, York high school principal Ryan Poston and fellow teachers, according to the district.
“We are thrilled that Mr. Whitmore is being recognized by our state as one of the best,” Coxe said in a prepared statement. “Mr. Whitmore is not only a stellar teacher; he is an effective leader in our district. He is an incredibly effective advocate for the profession and embraces opportunities to speak eloquently about his students and their successes.”
