Next STEM Educator of the Year to be Named on April 2

South Carolina’s Coalition for Mathematics & Science (SCCMS), a leader in action and advocacy for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education, will host the 8th Annual STEM Education Day at the Capitol on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.

This free, public event will be held at the State House (1100 Gervais St. Columbia, SC 29208) and is designed to celebrate the growing partnerships across South Carolina businesses, community, and education. Attendees can engage with exhibits from a variety of STEM organization, meet the regional “Growing in STEM Grant” winners, and network with legislators and other STEM education supporters. The highlight of the day will be the announcement of this year’s STEM Educator of the Year winner.

The STEM Educator of the Year, presented by Comporium, is a prestigious award honoring and empowering STEM educators who make a difference in the lives of students. Awardees are selected because they exemplify a true passion for STEM education, inspire and prepare students for future careers, and implement effective teaching strategies. SCCMS received hundreds of nominations from principals, administrators, students, and fellow teachers. Nominees were invited to apply, and their applications were reviewed by a committee of STEM-related industry leaders. Five (5) finalists were chosen to go through an interview process. One of these finalists will be selected as the statewide winner.

“As a company that relies on technology and engineering daily, Comporium has always advocated the value of South Carolina investing in its SETM educators,” stated Shaun Barnes, the company’s vice president of corporate communications and business development. “We thank them for their commitment, and we congratulate all of the nominees, and finalists on the well-deserved honor.” 

This year’s finalists are:
Angela Fletcher, Gateway to Technology Teacher from Hanahan Middle School
Angelique Piotrowsky, STEM Teacher from GREEN Charter High School
Crystal Blanton, Math Coach from Lugoff-Elgin Middle School
Katelyn Tobrocke, STEM Teacher from Socastee Elementary School
Michelle Spigner, Biology Teacher from Spring Valley High School

“Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) educators play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of engineers, programmers, and scientists,” said Katherine Mulholland, Executive Director of SCCMS. “I applaud the finalists and all of South Carolina’s dedicated STEM educators who go above and beyond every day to inspire and equip students for the future.”

About South Carolina’s Coalition for Mathematics & Science 

SCCMS – is committed to a vision where all South Carolinians exemplify world-class STEM knowledge, skills, and career-ready characteristics that foster success and engaged citizenship. Through strategic partnerships, advocacy, and public engagement, SCCMS amplifies the voices and impact of South Carolina’s STEM community.

About Comporium

With a service area of over 4,500 square miles and 150,000+ customers served, Comporium is large enough to offer cutting-edge technology but small enough to offer superior customer service. Day in and day out, our workforce of close to 1000 employees strives to make your life easier. For over 129 years, we’ve been a telecommunications leader in the Carolinas with our diverse, technologically rich suite of products and services. Our innovative solutions include broadband, TV, voice, wireless, smart home systems, and advertising services. 

Press Contacts: 

Katherine Mulholland, Executive Director, kmulholland@sccoalition.org 

Dallas Thomas, Outreach Manager, dthomas@sccoalition.org