News Summary
Corey Bedenbaugh, a history teacher at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School, was awarded the 2026 South Carolina Teacher of the Year on April 24, 2025. The honor recognizes his exceptional commitment to education and mentorship through his program ‘Bow Ties with Bedenbaugh,’ which instills life skills in young men. He also contributes to his school community as a junior varsity basketball coach and advisor for student organizations. Bedenbaugh’s recognition highlights the vital role of quality educators in both urban and rural areas of South Carolina.
Columbia, South Carolina – Corey Bedenbaugh, a history teacher at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School, was named the 2026 South Carolina Teacher of the Year during a ceremony held at the Governor’s Mansion on April 24, 2025. This prestigious award acknowledges the extraordinary contributions of teachers across the state and highlights the importance of education in both urban and rural areas.
As South Carolina Teacher of the Year, Bedenbaugh received a cash prize of $25,000 and the opportunity to drive a new BMW for one year. In awarding him the title, the selection committee recognized his commitment to mentoring students, particularly through his innovative program, “Bow Ties with Bedenbaugh.” This initiative focuses on instilling life skills in young men, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.
Bedenbaugh’s contributions extend beyond the classroom. He is also the coach of the junior varsity girls’ basketball team and serves as a sponsor for both the Student Council and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School. His multifaceted role in the school community demonstrates his dedication to fostering both academic and personal growth among his students.
The Teacher of the Year award aims to shed light on the significance of quality teaching throughout South Carolina. This year, four of the five finalists for the award hailed from rural districts, illustrating the presence of outstanding educators in all areas of the state. Ellen Weaver, the State Superintendent of Education, acknowledged the unique challenges faced by rural districts while emphasizing the vital role that quality educators play in their communities.
With six years of experience in the Lexington School District Three, Bedenbaugh previously received the Teacher of the Year honor at Pelion Middle School in 2017. His educational background includes a bachelor’s degree from Newberry College and a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix. Bedenbaugh’s impressive credentials, along with his dedication to student success, contributed to his recognition as Teacher of the Year.
As part of his new role, Bedenbaugh will serve as a roving ambassador for educators across South Carolina. This position entails mentoring fellow teachers, attending various speaking engagements, and acting as a spokesperson for more than 64,000 educators throughout the state. Bedenbaugh’s commitment to collaboration and mentorship underscores the vital importance of supporting teachers in their mission to inspire and educate the next generation.
The Teacher of the Year award is a crucial element in recognizing not only individual excellence in teaching but also fostering a community that values and supports education. The emphasis on both rural and urban representation among finalists highlights the collective effort towards achieving educational greatness across South Carolina. Bedenbaugh’s story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that dedicated educators can have on their students’ lives, inspiring a future generation of learners and leaders.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Corey Bedenbaugh Named 2026 South Carolina Teacher of the Year
- WISTV: Corey Bedenbaugh Wins SC Teacher of the Year
- SC Daily Gazette: SC Senate Advances Teacher Contracts Bill
- ABC News 4: Midlands Teacher Wins South Carolina Teacher of the Year Award
- ABC Columbia: South Carolina’s Teacher of the Year Ceremony
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