TR High School's Jessica Richardson named Emerging Teacher of the Year

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Travelers Rest High School Spanish teacher Jessica Richardson was named the 2014-15 Greenville County Schools Secondary Level Emerging Teacher of the Year, it was announced Thursday.

Sponsored by Greenville Federal Credit Union, the Emerging Teachers of the Year program recognizes two second- or third-year teachers – one at the elementary level and one at the secondary level – for outstanding performance. Each winner receives $500, a crystal award, and $500 for their school.

“Richardson meets the challenges of education in today’s classroom with determination and skill,” Greenville County Schools Superintendent W. Burke Royster said. “Students connect to Ms. Richardson with respect, personal commitment, and caring.”

Richardson, who graduated from Furman University, is entering her third year at Travelers Rest High School. In addition to her role as a Spanish teacher, she assists with the robotics team, Beta Club, and Faculty Council.

"I was so honored to be nominated and even more honored to win,” Richardson said. “I love working at Travelers Rest High. I love my staff and my principal, and the students are amazing.“

Ashley Bentley, fifth grade teacher at Greenbrier Elementary School, was named the Greenville County Schools Elementary Level Emerging Teacher of the Year. Adam Scheuch, band director at Mauldin High School, received the Teacher of the Year honor, it was also announced Thursday.