ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA – A science teacher at Indian Land Middle School in the Lancaster School District will have a new banner to display in her classroom.
Kali Hasselbacher Kumar was recognized April 30 with the Jessie Williams Little “Leading the Way” Award for her efforts to lend crucial support and guidance to new and future educators. She was surprised with the banner and a $2,500 check on April 30 by educators with the Richard W. Riley College of Education, Sport and Human Sciences at Winthrop University.
The “Leading the Way” Award has been given annually since 2018 to recognize teachers who help uplift their profession by mentoring new and other teachers. It was created as a partnership between John and Jessie Williams Little ’73 and the James and Susan Rex Institute for Educational Renewal and Partnership, based at Winthrop.
As Bettie Parsons Barger, director of the institute, shared: “Whether a teacher cadet instructor, a mentor to college students learning to teach for the first time, beginning teacher mentors, or those teacher mentors who just naturally support anyone who needs it – these are the positive role models on which we hang the hope of recruiting AND KEEPING the best and the brightest in education.”
Kumar has been observed as a positive impact on current and future teachers. “As a mentor, her broad scope of responsibilities includes guiding not only new science teachers but also educators in other content areas. This cross-disciplinary support fosters a collaborative and inclusive professional environment,” said Curwood Dillingham, a colleague. “Furthermore, her role as a mentor for teacher cadets demonstrates a dedication to nurturing the next generation of educators. Kumar actively contributes to the development of a pipeline of well-prepared and enthusiastic individuals entering the teaching profession.”
In all, nine teachers were recognized with “Leading the Way” awards. Those selected as finalists and given $1,000 were:
Rhonda Holland, a Winthrop Class of 2011 graduate and eighth grade resource teacher, Indian Land Middle School in the Lancaster School District. “Fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, Holland contributes to the growth and confidence of new educators, setting a positive tone for their careers. Her commitment to inclusivity and personalized instruction sets a compelling example, emphasizing the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet individual student needs for both current and aspiring teachers,” wrote nominator Kelly Moran.
Tamara Cox, school librarian, Wren High School in the Anderson School District One. Nominator Jamie Gregory wrote, “Mrs. Cox is a tireless advocate for public education and works hard to positively impact both current and future teachers. One of her most personal accomplishments has been seeing some of her former students become teachers.”
Blanche Baxley, eighth grade science teacher, Indian Land Middle School in the Lancaster School District. Nominator Jennifer Blake wrote, “Whether guiding those at the start of their careers or providing continuous support to seasoned educators, Baxley’s mentorship reflects a commitment to the collective growth and success of educators across the district, significantly strengthening the overall educational community.”
Joanna Connell, sixth grade math teacher, Lakeside Middle School in the Lexington School District One. According to nominator Alex Pinto, “Mrs. Connell’s profound impact on current and future teachers stems from her extensive experience and unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive educational community.”
Shannon Simmons, special education teacher, Clover High School in the York School District Two. According to nominator Vicki Wolford, “Her ability to organize information and present information provides a meaningful and accessible experience that encourages new teacher development and assimilation to the culture and process of the profession on a personal and professional level.”
Chosen as semifinalists and given $750 were:
Rachael Shriver, a Winthrop Class of 2014 graduate and computer technology teacher, Gold Hill Middle School in the Fort Mill School District. Shriver is known as a positive light in her school community. “She has a great attitude and is always willing to jump in and help wherever she is needed,” said Lindsey Everhart.
Brianna Weitz, seventh grade math teacher, Indian Land Middle School in the Lancaster Country School District. “Ms. Weitz has a positive impact on both current and future educators. Her dedicated mentorship has transformed teaching practices, instilled confidence, and inspired a passion for innovative instruction. Ms. Weitz’s emphasis on a growth mindset has had a lasting influence on her peers,” wrote nominator Amber Pendergrass.
Stephanie Moldenhauer, third grade gifted and talented teacher, Red Cedar Elementary School in Beaufort School District. “Ms. Moldenhauer’s impact, as shared by candidates who have worked with her, includes a common thread; she is patient, positive, and passionate about teaching. Her feedback is honest and inciteful,” said Maryanne Rizzi.
For more information, including how to provide financial support to the “Leading the Way” initiative, contact Bettie Parsons Barger, director of the Rex Institute, at bargerbp@winthrop.edu.
