Mary Grace Carlson, a teacher at Carolina High and Academy, has been named Greenville County Schools’ Teacher of the Year for the 2026-27 school year. 

The award was announced early Thursday morning at a special breakfast for Greenville County faculty. The first-class teacher awards and the emerging teacher awards were also named at the event.

“Teaching has enriched my life in so many ways and provided me the opportunity to be a part of so many communities,” Carlson said in her acceptance speech. “… [It] is such a privilege, because we’re able to be a part of helping develop future leaders.”

Carlson teaches government and economics at Carolina High and Academy. Greenville County Schools Superintendent Burke Royster says she was selected for her innovative approach in the classroom and ability to implement real-world applications in her lessons.

“Beyond the classroom, [Carlson] serves as a department leader, mentor and collaborative partner that supports the growth of students and colleagues,” Royster said. “[Her] commitment to student empowerment, leadership and educational excellence has made a lasting impact on the school community.”

Here’s a look at all of the honorees recognized at Thursday’s event:

Greenville County Schools Teacher of the Year

  • Winner: Mary Grace Carlson, Carolina High and Academy

  • 1st Runner-Up: Graham Garcia, Lakeview Middle School

  • 2nd Runner-Up: Bill Twaler, Enoree Career Center

  • 3rd Runner-Up: Jessica Yale, Travelers Rest High School

First-Class Teachers of the Year

The first-class teacher award recognizes educators in their first year of teaching at the elementary and secondary level.

  • Winner (elementary): Makaela Letayf, Alexander Elementary School

  • Winner (secondary): Caleb Brown, Riverside High School

Emerging Teachers of the Year

The emerging teacher award recognizes educators in their first two to three years of teaching at the elementary and secondary level.

  • Winner (elementary): Lia Winter, Berea Elementary School

  • Winner (secondary): Lori Foley, Carolina High and Academy

To see all of the nominees for the Teacher of the Year awards, visit Greenville County Schools’ website.