Two lowcountry educators receive surprise recognition with state awards for student growth

BEAUFORT, S.C. (WTOC) - Tuesday, two educators who taught at Whale Branch Middle last year were surprised with significant state-funded awards at a Board of Education meeting.

The awards recognize their outstanding teaching that led to measurable student academic growth.

The recognition is part of a state-funded pilot program created by the South Carolina General Assembly to support innovative and strategic educator compensation across public school districts and charter schools. The pilot, extended through the 2025-2026 school year, recognizes and rewards teachers whose work is directly connected to student achievement.

Based on the criteria of the program, Whale Branch Middle School was selected for funding. The district implemented the State Collaboration Approach, which bases awards on student growth as measured by SC READY assessments.

For the 2024-2025 school year, educators Christine Williams, pictured left, and Christa Huffman, pictured right, were selected as award recipients for their exceptional work with students.

• Christine Williams will receive $25,920
• Christa Huffman will receive $11,480