Episodes

What if you could transform a struggling student’s perspective on math with just a little inspiration and a lot of heart? In this episode of Spotlight for Success, we’re joined by the passionate and lively Danielle Stewart from Sedgefield Middle School. Danielle shares her journey from a young aspiring teacher in Ohio to a beloved educator in South Carolina. Her enthusiasm for teaching eighth-grade math is contagious as she opens up about how she strives to make students love math just a bit mor...

Discover how education can transform lives with Dr. LaKeshia Adams, affectionately known as Dr. A, as she guides us through her unexpected journey from a public school math teacher to a pivotal role in the Correctional Education Association. Dr. A shares personal stories and insights on how her career path evolved into working as a transition specialist within the correctional system. She reveals the significance of organizations like the CEA in providing critical support and networking opportun...

Discover how Marguerite McClam, a passionate advocate for mathematics education and leader of the South Carolina Chapter of Math Counts, is inspiring the next generation of engineers and problem-solvers. Marguerite joins us to share her journey and insights on the transformative power of math education. With over 41 years of dedication to improving mathematics proficiency in the United States, Math Counts provides essential resources to students ranging from the most struggling sixth graders to ...

Imagine a teacher so dedicated to her students that she welcomes them into her home during their toughest times. That's Kimberly Harrington, our inspiring guest on Spotlight for Success. With over 33 years of teaching experience, Kimberly brings her heartfelt stories and wealth of knowledge to the podcast as she shares her journey from a childhood dream to a rewarding career in education. Her passion for teaching and lifelong learning is unmatched, and she discusses how her mother's late entry i...

What happens when a struggling math student becomes a passionate advocate for innovative teaching methods? Kara Johnson's journey from math anxiety to educational empowerment is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we explore Kara's transformation, fueled by the Everyday Mathematics program, which led to her remarkable success in teaching and consulting. Her story underscores the power of conceptual understanding in math education, a revelation that not only improved her students' performance ...

Kasey shares her personal journey into the real estate mortgage industry, recounting inspiring success stories of clients who have transformed their credit scores and turned their homeownership dreams into reality. With the support of Carolina One Mortgage's robust programs, individuals from all walks of life have moved into their first homes, some even at the age of 18! This conversation sheds light on Kasey's passion for making a tangible difference in people's lives and highlights the importa...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with J.R. Reid, a dynamic sixth-grade mathematics teacher and entrepreneur from Chester Middle School. J.R. returns to his Chester County roots, driven by a mission to uplift the community that shaped him. Discover how his own educational journey has fueled a passion for teaching and compelled him to become a beacon of guidance for students seeking positive pathways. J.R.’s candid reflections on classroom management and creating an engaging learning environm...

Danielle's passion for education is palpable as she shares compelling stories of student empowerment and the importance of building meaningful relationships within diverse communities. Her insights remind us of the limitless potential that lies within every learner, and her call to action inspires the educational technology community to continue its impactful work. For anyone committed to advancing education in the 21st century, this conversation offers a wealth of inspiration and a renewed comm...

Ever wondered how a career in television and film can shape a unique approach to education? Charlotte Holmes, a dynamic force from Paulding County Schools, shares her incredible journey from live studio manager in Massachusetts to innovative educator in Georgia. In our engaging conversation at the Georgia Educational Technology Conference, Charlotte reveals her passion for technology in the classroom and provides a fascinating look at how her creative background fuels her teaching methods. With ...

What happens when you blend creativity with education? Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Sonji Walsh, a seasoned media center specialist from DeKalb County Schools with an impressive 23-year career in teaching. Sonji's journey includes an international stint in Abu Dhabi where she perfected her approach to bridging language gaps using visuals and repetition. Now, these innovative strategies are vital tools in her role supporting lower readers. Unveiling her creative flair, Sonji shares ...

Discover the journey of Dr. Rhonda Webb, a powerhouse in education and the driving force behind the Georgia Council of Social Studies. After three decades as an innovative classroom teacher, Dr. Webb now leads GCSS with a vision to transform teaching through place-based learning. Hear her passion as she discusses plans to expand regional opportunities for educators, allowing them to experience history firsthand and enrich their teaching methods. Despite funding hurdles, Dr. Webb remains committe...

Jennifer Bell, an inspiring educator from Houston County Schools, joins us on Spotlight for Success to share her incredible journey and teaching methods. With 11 years of experience teaching fourth and fifth graders, Jennifer is passionate about integrating social studies with Language Arts to create an engaging, inquiry-based learning environment. Discover how she brings history to life through the use of primary sources, encouraging students to explore, ask questions, and develop critical thin...

Unlock the secrets of economics education with Dr. Chris Cannon, a leading voice from the Georgia Council for Economic Education. Discover how his journey from teaching high school in Clayton County to transforming statewide education initiatives has influenced countless teachers and students. With a focus on interactive workshops and creative lesson plans, Dr. Cannon shares how the Georgia Council is demystifying economics and making it accessible and exciting for educators far and wide.

Join us as we journey into the life of Daniel Manning, a 3rd year social studies teacher and coach at Union Grove High School in Henry County. Discover how Daniel's passion for education and sports, fueled by his experiences as a student in the same district, has led him to make a profound impact on his students. Through engaging stories and insights, Daniel challenges the notion that history is dull and reveals how his energetic approach keeps students engaged both in the classroom and on the p...

Join us for a conversation with Barbara Manwell, a former high school social studies teacher who now leads education programs at the Atlanta History Center. Barbara shares her journey from the classroom to the museum world, where she crafts educational experiences that make Georgia's rich history accessible to students of all ages. Learn how Barbara's work is breaking barriers in education through grant opportunities and virtual resources for Title I schools, and discover the creative initiative...

Discover what keeps Amanda Fanelli anchored to the classroom despite numerous opportunities to step away. With nearly two decades of experience, she shares her insights into fostering independent thoughts and challenging students to question the status quo. Highlighting her experience as a Scholar, Amanda recounts her voyage to Ghana—a pivotal moment that reshaped her perspective on global education. Recognized as the Gilder Lehrman Georgia History Teacher of the Year, Amanda’s story is a testam...

Our conversation with Taylor also takes us into the realm of networking and educational conferences, where she shares various resources with educators. Taylor's story is a testament to the impact of innovative education and the ripple effect it can have when one passionate individual dares to step beyond the classroom walls. Tune in to explore the remarkable strides Taylor Oliver is making and discover how her work with EverFi is reshaping the future of social studies education.

Join us as we sit down with Dr. Randell Trammell to uncover how his lifelong commitment to civic education was sparked by his own transformative experience in a model legislature program. From humble beginnings in Dalton, Georgia, to leading statewide initiatives, Dr. Randall shares his passion for equipping the next generation with the tools of civic engagement, ensuring that students don't just learn about democracy—they live it.

Michelle Schaefle joins us on Spotlight for Success to share her journey from the classroom to the forefront of educational innovation. Discover how her passion for teaching science and STEM has evolved into a role at News-O-Matic, where she crafts educational products that nurture critical thinking and strengthen students' real-world connections. Michelle's story is a testament to her dedication to enhancing the learning environment, offering valuable insights for educators and innovators alike...