Florence 1 Schools: Cover Story

TOP EDUCATORS HONORED BY FLORENCE 1 SCHOOLS

Surprises and celebrations spread far and wide in Florence 1 Schools as the district named the 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year, Assistant Principal of the Year, and Principal of the Year.

Dr. Hugh Pressley, Teacher of the Year

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Dr. Hugh Pressley from West Florence was announced as Teacher of the Year during the annual School Foundation Gala. Pressley teaches English, AP Research and Teacher Cadets at West Florence and also serves as teacher-mentor in the Sharper Knights Program. Hayley Oliver, a current student of Pressley, said that he is more than deserving of the award. “I'm a part of his Teacher Cadets course and it's definitely been the most eye-opening experience I've had at West Florence,” Oliver said. “Mr. Pressley is an excellent teacher for many reasons. A majority of our activities are hands-on so it allows me to gain a better grasp of the material being taught. Mr. Pressley is not only an awesome teacher but a great person. He deeply cares for all of his students; He is willing to go above and beyond for his students and their success which is an excellent quality to have in a teacher.” Steven McCartt, a former student of Pressley, was also quick to praise him. “Mr. Pressley was deserving of the F1S Teacher of the Year award because he genuinely cares about both the educational advancement of his students, as well as their mental and emotional well-being,” McCartt said. “He takes the time to establish tangible relationships with his students that not only made an impact on my life but also on every student that had his class. To this day, Mr. Pressley still has correspondence with me, encouraging me to do great things.”

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Amy Williams, Assistant Principal of the Year Across town at McLaurin, Superintendent Richard O’Malley surprised Amy Williams with the news that she was the district’s Assistant Principal of the Year. Conspiring with Principal Debbie Cribb, O’Malley planned to take part in a ‘staff meeting’ at the school. He thanked the teachers and staff for everything they do for Florence 1 before telling everyone why he was really there, bringing out Williams’ husband and Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Schools, Michelle McBride.

Kasandra Durant, McLaurin’s Literacy Coach, said that Williams was very deserving of the recognition. “Since meeting Mrs. Williams over 20 years ago, I have always enjoyed working with her,” Durant said. “Her love for the children at McLaurin and the staff is evident and appreciated." Principal Cribb said that Williams is a vital part of the McLaurin community. “Amy has been at McLaurin for over 20 years,” Cribb said. “She began as a teacher, later moved to Curriculum Coordinator and now serves as one of our Assistant Principals. In every position she has held at McLaurin, it has always been about helping our students and staff be the best they could be. She wears many hats at McLaurin, and she is an invaluable part of our Leadership Team. She works well with everyone and can be counted on to always go the extra mile for our students. We are so blessed to have her at McLaurin!”

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Tara Newton, Principal of the Year

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O’Malley was also involved in the surprise for Principal of the Year, Tara Newton, this time calling her away from her building so that the school staff and students could set their plan into motion. Newton returned to school to find balloons, singers and a yard full of well-wishers, including some former students who are now Chorliers at South Florence High School, and several of her fellow elementary school principals. “I am proud of the leadership that Mrs. Newton has brought to Briggs Elementary,” said F1S Board of Trustees Chairman Porter Stewart, who represents the Briggs area. “It is evident from the accomplishments there that the administrators, teachers and staff are focused on student achievement in very effective programs. The school is also welcoming to families and the community. These are the fruits of dynamic leadership that starts with the principal.” Under Newton’s leadership, Briggs earned two Lighthouse Awards last year, one from Leader in Me and the other from Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence. Assistant Principal Angie Willard has been at Briggs for almost two decades, serving in her current role for 8 years under Newton. “Mrs. Newton constantly works hard to make Briggs better every day,” Willard said. “I am thankful to have her as a mentor. As a leader, she shows how to consistently support her faculty, staff, students and community in our pursuit of excellence.” Superintendent O’Malley said that these announcements are always a highlight in the school year. “We have some phenomenal educators and administrators in this district,” O’Malley said. “When you are on their campuses or talking to their students, the impacts of Mr. Pressley, Mrs. Williams and Mrs. Newton are very obvious. I am proud to celebrate them and their accomplishments.”