Congratulations are in order for two very special District Five family members, who are considered the "best" at what they do every day!
We are thrilled to announce that Lorie Goode, an art teacher from River Ridge Elementary School, has been named the 2024-25 District Five Teacher of the Year! The exciting new was revealed in a surprise announcement Wednesday morning by Superintendent Dr. Randall Gary. The event quickly turned into a spontaneous celebration and parade, with cheers of joy echoing through the halls of River Ridge Elementary.
Goode, who considers teaching art her "mission" field, says she's passionate about nurturing students' creative expression. "When students enter my room, I want them to feel my energy and excitement for what I am so passionate about," Goode says. "I begin class with students repeating our art motto and motions after me - “I am positive, I am creative, I am skillful, I am amazing, I am an ARTIST!”
In her 31st year in the classroom, Goode is a graduate of Converse College. She earned her Bachelors in Studio Art there, and would later receive a Masters in Education from the same school.
Her teaching philosophy is centered on making each student feel special, while also helping to shine a light on the importance of arts education. "Art provides our children the skills, values, and positive habits of mind that are critical for growth and development and the careers of the future! My mission is to assure that every child I can possibly influence will develop a love and respect for the arts."
As District Teacher of the Year, Lorie will now serve as an advocate for her fellow teachers, and a representative of District Five, along with teachers from across the state.
Just down the road, another celebration occurred as Terry Cullen, from Florence Chapel Middle School, was named the District Five 2024 Support Employee of the Year.
Cullen has served as the security guard at Florence Chapel for the past two years, and each morning, he is the first person to greet students with a warm smile, ensuring they start their day feeling welcomed and safe. His dedication goes beyond just safeguarding the halls; he actively engages with students, staff, and parents, making everyone feel supported and valued.
Prior to his role in District Five, Terry retired after serving many years in the military as a helicopter mechanic. He describes his role at Florence Chapel as "the most rewarding job he's ever had," and says his mission is to make an impact on students by being a mentor and positive influence each day.
In his recommendation, administrators say, "Mr. Cullen calls our students 'heroes' as they enter school each day. His most significant contribution to D5 schools is very simple: he makes our students feel seen, valued, and positive right when they walk into our building, and the kids listen, because they know his interest in them is real: from his heart."
Please join us in congratulating Terry Cullen and Lorie Goode on this on this well-deserved recognition. Both of these outstanding employees represent the very best of Spartanburg District Five!