By Alyssa Wert
Elizabeth McDonald was named Teacher of the Year at Manning High School for 2018-2019 school year and Clarendon School District Two Teacher of the Year for 2018-2019.
McDonald was born and raised in Seneca and graduated from Seneca High School. She later attended Clemson University to earn a bachelor’s degree in social studies education; Anderson University, where she earned her master’s degree in Education; and University of South Carolina to earn her master’s degree in educational administration. She is currently attending Clemson to obtain an ESOL certification, which will be completed in December.
Being a teacher wasn’t always McDonald’s concrete idea of her future career.
“I always wanted to be a teacher, except for about two years when I thought I wanted to be lawyer or a psychologist. Then in high school, I was the vice president and later the president of Future Educators of America. Being in that role really put a fire in me to pursue education as my field of choice. I felt as though being a teacher was a great way to influence change in my community and to be a voice for students who often do not have a voice,” said McDonald.
McDonald has taught for seven years—two years at Seneca High School, one year at Bethune-Bowman Middle/High School, and four years at Manning High. What made history so interesting to her?
“I have always had passion for history. When I was little, every time we went on vacation, my mom and dad would always make sure we visited museums. Even when we went to Disney, we visited museums in the area,” said McDonald.
Being district teacher is a huge responsibility, but McDonald seems to have a good grasp on it.
“I was surprised and shocked because all of the other candidates are amazing teachers. I was very happy, and I felt very blessed and humbled. I feel as though it is a great opportunity and it is something that I have always wanted to accomplish. I look forward to representing our district at the state level.”
Manning High School staff and students seek to support McDonald in her endeavors and wish her well in the state competition.
