South Carolina History teacher Sarah Kelly has garnered a prestigious 2024 National History Teacher of the Year Award from the Gilder Lehman Institute of American History. Photo Credit: Gilder Lehman Institute
There are many outstanding educators in American schools who have been honored for their work with young people. One of these is Sarah Kelly, a middle school teacher from South Carolina. She has garnered a prestigious 2024 National History Teacher of the Year Award from the Gilder Lehman Institute of American History.
Sarah teaches at Carolina Springs Middle School in Lexington, South Carolina. In a career that has spanned 12 years, she has taught grades five through eight. Sarah has a reputation for creating a classroom atmosphere that develops critical thinking skills, hands-on activities, analyzing diverse texts, and engaging in creative projects.
Established in 2004, this prestigious award recognizes exceptional elementary through high school teachers for their outstanding contributions to American history education. As part of her recognition, Sarah will receive a $1,000 honorarium, and a collection of classroom resources, including an archive of American history books and educational materials curated by the Gilder Lehrman Institute. Additionally, she will be recognized at a local ceremony and join the group of 53 finalists who are contending for the 2024 National History Teacher of the Year Award. For a complete list of the 2024 state winners, visit this link.
“In times like these, history teachers play a critical role in shaping students’ understanding of the past and inspiring hope for the future,” says James G. Basker, president of the Gilder Lehrman Institute. “Their unwavering dedication to educating our youth is commendable, and we take great pride in honoring the most exceptional educators across the country.”
In June, 2024, Sarah was also honored as the South Carolina History Teacher of the Year by the South Carolina State General Assembly for her contributions to the teaching profession.
