Superintendent Spearman Announces Chestnut Oaks Middle School's Thomas Slater as Teacher of the Year Finalist

State Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman surprised Chestnut Oaks Middle School's Thomas Slater today with news that he has been selected as one of five finalists for the South Carolina Teacher of the Year award.  

“Thomas' approach to teaching captures the spirit and passion of the best educators we have in South Carolina," said Superintendent Spearman. "He prides himself on empowering students to reach beyond what they think they can accomplish, and high achievement is the result of this approach. For these reasons and more, we are honored to name Thomas a finalist for the state's top teacher award."

Thomas Slater is the chorus and general music instructor at Chestnut Oaks Middle School with the Sumter School District. He earned a bachelor's degree from South Carolina State University, and a master's in education administration from Grand Canyon University. He has served over 30 years in the classroom.

"Thomas Slater is the epitome of a life-long educator,” said Sumter School District Lead Administrator/Chief of Schools Dr. Brenda Hafner. “For 36 years, Thomas has dedicated his life to education. He instills discipline and pride in his students while building their confidence to make them more versatile to compete in a global society. The Sumter School District family congratulates Thomas, and we wish him nothing but the best in his journey toward being named the best in the state.”

Thomas discovered as a sophomore in high school that his passion was to pursue a music career. Inspired by his family of educators, and his high school band director, he enthusiastically began his musical journey as his life's purpose. 

Thomas prides himself on empowering students to reach beyond what they think they can accomplish. He encourages them to think outside the box, not only musically, but in other disciplines of learning as well. He provides a learning environment that is safe and nurturing, promoting risk-taking, which is met with encouragement to help students succeed.

As one of five finalists, Thomas will receive $10,000 and go on to the next stage of competition which involves an interview with a team of expert judges. The winner will be announced at the South Carolina Teacher of the Year Gala on May 4 in Columbia.
 
The winner receives a total of $25,000 and is provided with a brand new BMW to use while serving for one year as a roving ambassador providing mentoring, attending speaking engagements, working with Teacher Cadets and Teaching Fellows, leading the State Teacher Forum, and serving as the state spokesperson for over 50,000 educators.

The Teacher of the Year program celebrates excellence and strengthens the teaching force by honoring and recognizing exceptional teachers on the district, state, and national levels. The Teacher of the Year Awards not only assist in retention efforts but serve as a powerful recruitment tool to the educator profession. Tickets and sponsorship information for this year's Teacher of the Year Gala can be found at www.sceducationfoundation.com.