News Summary
Corey Bedenbaugh, a dedicated social studies teacher at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School, has been honored as the 2026 South Carolina Teacher of the Year. Celebrated for his teaching philosophy that engages students and makes history relatable, he will serve as a statewide ambassador for education. Bedenbaugh’s commitment to mentoring and coaching has made a significant impact within his community. His achievement includes a $25,000 award and a year-long use of a BMW, providing him an opportunity for professional growth. The entire Lexington County community celebrates this remarkable accomplishment.
Exciting News from Lexington County: A Teacher on a Mission!
In the heart of Lexington County, a remarkable celebration took place as Corey Bedenbaugh, a dedicated social studies teacher at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School, was honored as the 2026 South Carolina Teacher of the Year. This news has sparked joy and pride not just among his students but across the entire community.
Celebration Ceremony Brings Together Bright Minds
The announcement made during a ceremony in Columbia was a proud moment for educators across the state. State Superintendent Ellen Weaver took center stage during the South Carolina Teacher of the Year celebration, recognizing Bedenbaugh’s incredible contributions to education. With 11 years of teaching under his belt, he is set to take on a role as a statewide ambassador for the teaching profession.
A Teaching Philosophy That Inspires
Bedenbaugh believes in the power of history—not just as a collection of dates and facts, but as a vital tool to help students understand the world around them. His approach to teaching emphasizes the importance of engaging students and making lessons relatable, ensuring that they see the relevance of their education in real life.
A Multifaceted Educator
After earning his degree from Newberry College, Bedenbaugh dedicated himself to not only teaching but also mentoring young minds. He established a mentoring program called “Bow Ties with Bedenbaugh,” specifically aimed at equipping young men with essential life skills. His commitment doesn’t stop there; he also coaches the junior varsity girls’ basketball team and sponsors the Student Council and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at his school, showing his dedication to extracurricular activities.
Recognition Beyond the Classroom
Before receiving this prestigious accolade, Bedenbaugh was already recognized for his hard work and passion for teaching. He was named his district’s Teacher of the Year in 2024 and previously received similar honors at Pelion Middle School in 2017. These accolades are a testament to his dedication to his students’ academic success and personal growth.
What’s Next for Bedenbaugh?
As part of this incredible recognition, Bedenbaugh will receive $25,000 and a shiny new BMW to use for one year! This generous package is not just a reward but also an opportunity for Bedenbaugh to further participate in professional development at both state and national levels. It’s an exciting time for him, and he looks forward to taking this next step in his career.
Making a Lasting Impact
During his acceptance speech, Bedenbaugh highlighted the pivotal role that teachers play in shaping the lives of students. By inspiring future educators and mentoring teachers throughout South Carolina, he hopes to make a lasting impact on the teaching profession. His belief that teachers significantly influence students’ future careers and life paths speaks volumes about his commitment to education.
A Shared Celebration of Achievement
The ceremony was graced by the presence of notable figures, including Governor Henry McMaster, celebrating not just Bedenbaugh’s accomplishment, but also the collective effort of all teachers making a difference in their communities. With his passion and dedication, Corey Bedenbaugh serves as a shining example of what it means to be an educator in South Carolina.
As Bedenbaugh embarks on this exciting journey as the Teacher of the Year, the entire Lexington County community can take pride in a teacher who is not just shaping minds but also inspiring future leaders.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Corey Bedenbaugh Named 2026 South Carolina Teacher of the Year
- WIS TV: Corey Bedenbaugh Wins SC Teacher of the Year
- ABC News 4: Midlands Teacher Wins SC Teacher of the Year Award
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Google Search: South Carolina Teacher of the Year
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
