A 22-Year Commitment to Gratitude: Temple & Hogsette Law Group Recognizes Florence 1 Teachers of the Year

Temple & Hogsette Law Group proudly marks 22 years of recognizing and celebrating the Teachers of the Year from Florence School District One through its annual Statehouse recognition event.

Established in 2005 by founding partner E. Hood Temple and the late Senator Hugh Leatherman, the event has become a cherished tradition in Florence. What began as a gesture of appreciation has grown into one of the district’s most meaningful recognitions of instructional excellence, classroom leadership, and unwavering dedication to students.

Each year, Teachers of the Year from every Florence 1 school are invited to Columbia for a private tour of the South Carolina Statehouse, formal legislative recognition, and a luncheon with members of the Florence County Legislative Delegation. Representatives Wallace H. “Jay” Jordan, Phillip D. Lowe, and Senator Mike Reichenbach continue the tradition of honoring these educators for their service to the children and families of Florence County.

“This event has always been about more than an award,” said E. Hood Temple, Founding Partner of Temple & Hogsette Law Group. “For 22 years, we have simply tried to do one thing well — pause and say thank you. Thank you to the educators who show up early, stay late, and carry the responsibility of shaping the next generation of Florence. Their work defines the future of this community.”

2025-2026 Florence School District 1 Teachers of the Year:

Elementary Schools

• Briggs Elementary – Mykeha Davis
• Brockington Elementary – Janelle Pierre
• Carver Elementary – Hannah Cox
• CDC Woods Road – Stacie Windham
• Delmae Elementary – Sarah Sparkman
• Dewey L. Carter Elementary – Shirlee Padgett
• Greenwood Elementary – Y’vekia McWarren
• Lester Elementary – Ashley Dawkins
• Lucy T. Davis Elementary – Kathryn Poston
• McLaurin Elementary – Valerie Church
• North Vista Elementary – Kira Coleman-Ocampo
• R.N. Beck – Paige Desmarais
• Royall Elementary – Meagan Johnson
• Savannah Grove Elementary – Latasha Singletary
• Timrod Elementary – Taneshia Muldrow
• Wallace Gregg Elementary – Jessica Sohner

Middle Schools

• Moore Middle – Lisa Williamson
• Sneed Middle – Sara Holder
• Southside Middle – Lionell Cribb
• Williams Middle – Evan Sved

High Schools & Programs

• South Florence High – Vanyke McCray
• West Florence High – Ron Shamblen
• Wilson High – Amanda Nelson
• Advantage Academy – Alician Timmons-Perdue
• Alfred Rush Academy – Cynthia Sweat
• Adult Education – Taylor Bunn

This year, Meagan Johnson of Royall Elementary School was named the Florence 1 Schools District Teacher of the Year for 2025–2026, recognized for her dedication to student achievement and her leadership among peers.

“These Teachers of the Year represent the very best of the Florence 1 teachers,” said Alec Hogsette, Partner at Temple & Hogsette Law Group. “Their influence reaches far beyond lesson plans and classrooms. They shape character, build confidence, and create opportunities that change the trajectory of young lives. The impact of a great teacher echoes for decades — in careers chosen, in values instilled, and in communities strengthened. We are deeply honored to recognize the educators whose work quietly and powerfully shapes the future of Florence.”

At Royall Elementary, Mrs. Johnson’s impact is felt well beyond her classroom.

“Mrs. Johnson truly represents the heart of Royall,” said Principal Chris Rogers. “Her dedication, creativity, and love for her students shine brightly in everything she does. We are beyond proud of her and so grateful for the difference she makes in our school community.”

Reflecting on the recognition, Mrs. Johnson shared:

“I’m incredibly honored and humbled to receive the District Teacher of the Year award for Florence 1 Schools, the district I once attended as a student. As an exceptional education teacher, I have the privilege of working with students who teach me just as much—if not more—than I teach them. They show resilience, determination, and joy every single day, and it’s their strength that inspires everything I do in the classroom.”

In addition to celebrating classroom excellence, Temple & Hogsette recognizes the continued leadership of Superintendent Dr. Richard O’Malley. Under his direction, Florence School District One has strengthened academic outcomes, expanded student supports, and cultivated a culture where both educators and students are positioned to thrive.

“Strong schools require strong leadership,” Temple added. “Dr. O’Malley’s commitment to high standards and student-centered progress has made a measurable difference across this district. We are grateful for his partnership and for the collective effort that makes Florence 1 a source of pride for our entire community.”

Temple & Hogsette Law Group remains committed to serving Florence County not only through legal advocacy but through meaningful community investment. The Teachers of the Year recognition stands as one of the firm’s longest-running philanthropic initiatives — a reflection of its belief that honoring educators strengthens the entire community.

As the event enters its 22nd year, Temple & Hogsette is proud to continue a tradition rooted in gratitude, service, and a deep respect for the educators who shape Florence’s future.

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About Temple & Hogsette Law Group

Temple & Hogsette Law Group is a Florence, South Carolina-based personal injury law firm known for its client-first approach and steadfast commitment to community engagement. In addition to providing exceptional legal representation, the firm actively supports local initiatives that advance education, public service, and civic leadership throughout Florence County and beyond.