[Rock Hill, SC] – Riverwalk Academy is proud to announce that Ms. Angela Genica, a dedicated elementary self-contained special education teacher, has been honored as South Carolina Teacher of the Year for Teachers of Tomorrow (ToT). This prestigious recognition comes with a $500 award from Teachers of Tomorrow and places Ms. Genica in contention for the 2024 National Teachers of Tomorrow Teacher of the Year.
ToT operates in several states across the nation, and its Teacher of the Year competition awards first-year educators based on nominations from school principals and ToT field supervisors in Arizona, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. State winners are awarded $500 for classroom supplies and/or professional development.
Upon receiving the award, Ms. Genica expressed her astonishment and gratitude, "Discovering I was selected as South Carolina's Teacher of the Year by Teachers of Tomorrow was a moment of pure shock for me,” she remarked. “After spending years at home as a mom, I've always dreamed of making a difference as a teacher. I am profoundly grateful to both Teachers of Tomorrow and Riverwalk Academy for giving me this incredible opportunity. More than just a job, this role offers me the cherished chance to support our students and bolster their self-assurance alongside my colleagues, which brings immense joy to my heart."
"The Teacher of the Year award recognizes first-year educators across the nation who are making a difference in the lives of their students," said Dr. Heath Morrison, CEO of Teachers of Tomorrow. "As an educator enrolled in Teachers of Tomorrow's alternative certification program, Angela is putting her skills to use in the classroom. We applaud her dedication to South Carolina students and the teaching profession.”
Ms. Erica McCray, the elementary principal at Riverwalk Academy, praised Ms. Genica's unwavering commitment to her students, “Mrs. Genica embodies the very essence of educational passion and dedication. Her unwavering belief in every student's ability to succeed exemplifies what it means to be an educator. It is an immense pleasure to celebrate her achievement as the 2024 South Carolina Teacher of the Year.”
Dr. Robert Compton, Head of School, also commended Ms. Genica’s contribution to the school and her unique journey to becoming a teacher, “We are all deeply appreciative of Ms. Genica's efforts for our students and school community. Her journey to certification underscores the adaptability and innovation that charter schools in South Carolina can offer. Initiatives like Teachers of Tomorrow ensure our classrooms are led by teachers who are not only outstanding but also highly effective.”
Riverwalk Academy congratulates Ms. Angela Genica on her outstanding achievement and looks forward to her continued impact on the Riverwalk Academy students and community.
The state winners are automatically entered as finalists for the national Teacher of the Year competition, which is determined by a public vote. The 2024 national winner is awarded $5,000 and will be announced during Teacher Appreciation Week, Monday, May 6 – Friday, May 10, 2024.