BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C.–Berkeley County School District (BCSD) named Sangaree Intermediate School’s Thomas Mignone as the 2019 Teacher of the Year on Tuesday.
BCSD honored Mignone and 46 school-level Teachers of the Year at the annual Teacher of the Year Breakfast at Trident Technical College.
“I’ve said it before, the announcement of the District Teacher of the Year and recognition of all school Teachers of the Year is one of the most exciting events of the year,” said BCSD Superintendent Dr. Eddie Ingram. “We are proud of Mr. Mignone and all of our teacher-leaders who were selected by peers for outstanding commitment to students and the education profession.”
Mr. Mignone realized he wanted to become a teacher when he was in high school. He said the decision he made that day is something he’s never second-guessed. He places a priority on his work to teach students how to grow as readers, writers and overall learners, but he believes his biggest contribution to their growth is his ability to make them think positively about themselves.
As a 5th-grade teacher in only his third year, Mr. Mignone admits he was surprised to learn he was a finalist and even more taken back when his name was announced as District Teacher of the Year. He touts his ability to build relationships as what possibly sets him apart.
“I don’t have it down to a science. It’s kind of natural,” he said. “It’s an instinct kind of thing, but I’m really good at making kids feel good, feel confident, and not with stuff that’s sugar-coated. It’s all truthful. They appreciate that, and I appreciate the work that they give me.”
Mr. Mignone said as the district’s new teacher-leader, he is looking forward to meeting and working with more BCSD educators. He’s also excited to advocate for fellow educators.
“I think in education, it’s a career that’s built on bouncing ideas off each other and sharing resources,” he said.
The 42nd Annual Teacher of the Year Breakfast, sponsored by Trident Technical College, Santee Cooper and the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce, celebrates educators nominated by their peers for outstanding work done in the classroom and elsewhere on BCSD campuses. The other two Honor Roll Teacher of the Year finalists were Ms. Amy Hardison of Daniel Island School and Ms. Kimberly Walker of Nexton Elementary.
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