College of Education

2023 News

Heart of a Teacher

As a student teacher at Meadowfield Elementary School, Melissa Klopfer (B.Ed., '80) incurred more expenses than the usual tuition, housing, books and supplies. Now, with the establishment of the Melissa L. Klopfer Endowed Scholarship this year, she hopes no student teacher will ever experience the same struggles she did.

2024 SCASA Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year Meg Huggins shares message of empowerment

"Growing up I thought everyone was a teacher," Huggins says. "I don't think I realized there were other jobs. In college, I recognized the power of connecting with the community and students and reignited my passion for education."

"I have never given up"

Poverty can play tricks with your mind. That's something Ranina Outing, regional liaison with the Carolina Family Engagement Center (a federal grant project within the University of South Carolina College of Education) knows too well. And it's one reason she's been successful helping families get the assistance and education they need, not just to survive but to succeed.

Math class helps student discover their own hidden figures of history

The daughter of two educators, Claire Henke has always had a passion for learning. A recent project in her math history class introduced her to mathematical superhero, Gladys West. West is a pioneer in the development of the global positioning system (GPS) and is still sharing her love of math with students eager to listen.

Meir Muller shares tips for communicating with children during times of turmoil

As an expert in early childhood education, ordained Rabbi and co-founder of the Cutler Jewish Day School, Meir Muller offers expertise on how to best communicate with your child, providing stability and safety.

Shine Through Your Story

Jennifer Heebink's story from student to educator exemplifies her personal motto to "shine through your story." Her journey to adapted physical education began with a difficult college experience.

College of Education and SC Council on the Holocaust partner with a purpose

When Professor Jeff Eargle began his career teaching English in Poland, he had no idea years later, he would help bring South Carolina educators there to study the art of teaching the complexity of the Holocaust.

Everyone Belongs

There's seemingly no end to the stories Laurann Gallitto Patel can tell about working with immigrant and refugee families. Some are heartwarming. Others are heartbreaking. All have been helpful in her nearly eight years of helping them adjust to life in America through its public schools.

The online Ed.D. gives students solutions to turn problems into opportunities: STEM Education

Dawn Pilotti says that her dissertation mentor, Professor Harbour, has helped her create a comprehensive, yet focused, project that specifically applies to influencing local changes at her school through professional learning communities.

The online Ed.D. gives students solutions to turn problems into opportunities: Education Systems Improvement

Angela Rush has worked in a variety of positions throughout her career as an educator. She's been in the classroom, assisted teachers as an instructional coach and directed district curriculum and professional development but is currently working as the director of translation and interpretation services for a large school district. Despite multiple degrees and working across district specializations, she had always wanted to pursue a doctoral degree.

The online Ed.D. gives students solutions to turn problems into opportunities: Curriculum Studies

Teresa Cronell has been a nursing educator for more than a decade and a registered nurse for 32 years. When she began looking for an advanced degree program, she, like others, was torn between choosing a Ph.D. or Ed.D

The online Ed.D. gives students solutions to turn problems into opportunities. Learning Design and Technology: Rachael Santopietro

"I was making decisions during the first summer of the pandemic," Santopietro says. "The ability to complete the program in four years and completely online was very attractive to me. It gave me the opportunity to spend my time efficiently while still being present at work and with my family."

Remembering Diane Monrad, Ph.D.

The College of Education is celebrating the life of Diane Monrad, Ph.D. and her more than 30-year commitment as a dedicated faculty member.

Personalized Learning: It's Not Just for Kids

With teacher retention as one of the issues at the forefront of education in South Carolina, meeting teachers' professional needs in a way that provides them ownership over their professional learning is one way to address this problem.

Schooled by an Island

Daufuskie Island is a 15-square-mile barrier island off the coast of South Carolina. In 1974, Daufuskie had a meager population of 85, most of whom had little or no formal education and one-fourth of whom were under the age of 14. The island had been unable to keep a teacher for more than nine months. Until the Albertos came.

State-of-the-Art Residency Design Launched in 5 Districts in South Carolina

The Carolina Collaborative for Alternative Preparation (CarolinaCAP) launched a residency component to its alternative certification pathway on July 11, 2023 by hosting a district design day followed by an orientation for residents. The residency was designed as an intensive and innovative doorway into the CarolinaCAP pathway, ensuring residents are better prepared for the teaching profession.

CarolinaCAP certified by Apprenticeship Carolina(TM)

The Carolina Collaborative for Alternative Preparation (CarolinaCAP) is now a certified apprenticeship through Apprenticeship Carolina(TM). This designation allows candidates to be eligible for additional funding towards their teaching certification and preparation -- even for essentials like gas to travel to and from school.

Q&A with Rick Maxey, South Carolina Association of School Administrators 2024 Superintendent of the Year

Rick Maxey credits the passion of his former professors with motivating him towards a 34-year career in public education.

Anne Frank Center offers history for today to University 101 students and faculty

The University of South Carolina's Anne Frank Center offers freshmen students an unparalleled educational experience. More than 320 sections of University 101 have toured the center during the fall semester through the campus partner presentation.

College of Education honors "Champions of Education" at inaugural gala

The College of Education honored six alumni at the inaugural "Champions of Education" Gala on March 30, 2023. Dean Thomas Hodges spoke about the future of the college and his vision for a revitalized building signifying the college's support of teachers from their first days on campus.

Q&A with Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year, Melanie Harris of H.E. Corley Elementary

Doctoral student's research highlighted at United Nations assembly

Language and Literacy doctoral student Ghanem Alghuwainem had the opportunity of a lifetime when he spoke in December at the United Nations headquarters for the International Day of the Arabic Language.

Center liaison uses special training to help children with developmental trauma

Julia Price Beaty knows the power of story, particularly as it affects children who've experienced complex developmental trauma. In her work as a clinically licensed social worker, she's seen how understanding someone's history - as early as in utero and up through adulthood - can explain challenging behavior.

Q&A with Middle Level Principal of the Year, Mary Leslie Anderson of League Academy

Principal Anderson hopes her recognition will allow her to advocate for educators across the state.

Q&A with 2023 Secondary Principal of the Year, Rod Ruth of Clover High School

Principal Ruth shares how his success in the education field is based on a lifelong commitment of giving back.

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