WILLIAMSTON — Three teachers from Anderson School District One are recipients of the 2011 Palmetto Award for Social Studies Teachers of Distinction Awards presented by the South Carolina Council for Social Studies.

They were recognized at the annual state conference on September 26, 2011 for their exemplary teaching practices in social studies.

The state award is given to teachers from each of the 85 school districts. Elementary winner is Brandon Koon from Palmetto Elementary.

Representing the middle schools in Anderson One is Katherine Cord from Powdersville Middle and the high school winner is Stan Yarborough from Palmetto High.

Jane Harrison, Director of Elementary Education, said, “The competition for selecting the award winners from such a quality group of teachers across the district was tough this year. The three teachers representing our district at the state level are excellent. These teachers are outstanding role models in the teaching of social studies. They are enthusiastic about their content and they make history come alive for the students. They are connecting history to the present and helping our students become productive citizens for life.”

“Receiving this award is a direct result of the great teachers I have worked with and the outstanding professional development opportunities Anderson One has offered throughout my career, said Brandon Koon, fourth grade teacher at Palmetto Elementary”.

Powdersville Middle recipient, Kathy Cord, said "It was an honor and a privilege to be chosen for this award. I have told many people how much I enjoy teaching Social Studies at Powdersville Middle. The teachers, administration and students are simply the best. Being part of Anderson District One is a blessing of which I am most grateful."

Stan Yarborough, Palmetto High school said, “It is truly an honor to be nominated for this award by Dr. Gary to represent Palmetto High School. I passionately believe that all students should be able to set and achieve goals, no matter what their social, cultural, or economic differences are challenges. I encourage students to embrace learning as a never ending, life-long journey because just as one’s life remains exciting and challenging, so does learning. I want to do whatever it takes to help ALL students find Success…Nothing Less.”