Greenville County Schools recently revealed the ten GCS teachers who have been named as Finalists for 2026-27 GCS Teacher of the Year.
“These ten educators represent the very best of what it means to serve students with purpose,” said GCS Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster. “In every classroom, they are building the academic and life skills of successful college-and career-ready students with a collective commitment to excellence. Their influence reaches far beyond a single lesson or school year; it leaves a lasting mark on the lives of the students they serve and strengthens our entire community.”
The Top 10 Finalists are, in alphabetical order:
A.J. Arrowood, Agriculture Teacher, Greer High
Mary Grace Carlson, Government and Economics Teacher, Carolina High
Michael Chapman, EMT Instructor, Golden Strip Career Center
Bryanna Dennewitz, 6th and 7th Grade Science Teacher, Bryson Middle
Graham Garcia, 8th Grade Math Teacher, Lakeview Middle
Amanda Hamann, Art Teacher, Alexander Elementary
Kayla Layman, Geometry Teacher, Greenville Sr. High Academy
Kris Monday, Cosmetology Instructor, Bonds Career Center
Bill Twaler, Culinary Arts Instructor, Enoree Career Center
Jessica Yale, Special Education Teacher, Travelers Rest High
These finalists were chosen from among approximately 6,000 teachers across the district. Each received a $100 Visa Gift Card, a picnic/stadium blanket and an umbrella from Greenville Federal Credit Union, a sponsor of the district.
The selection process for the finalists began last fall when schools and centers selected their individual Teacher of the Year. Teachers interested in being considered for the GCS Teacher of the Year then completed an extensive application that was reviewed by Screening Committees and a Judges Selection Committee.
The Top 10 Finalists will be narrowed down to three finalists and the 2026-27 Greenville County Schools Teacher of the Year through in-person interviews and classroom observations. The 2026-27 Teacher of the Year will be announced on Aug. 6.
