‘Brings learning to life’: Inspirational Rock Hill teachers win renovated classrooms

Classroom Makeover Program ‘Inspiring Spaces’ Rewards the City’s Exceptional Educators

Amidst the turbulent conditions of Tropical Storm Debby, the students of Rock Hill Schools in South Carolina will return to find some unprecedented surprises awaiting them. Three of the city’s esteemed teachers now possess newly renovated classrooms; their recognition is the result of winning the “Inspiring Spaces,” a program dedicated to acknowledging remarkable educators.

‘A Game-Changer in Education’

One of the triumphant educators is Amanda Bolt, a first-grade teacher hailed as a game-changer in the teaching profession by her students. She fuels a fervor for learning among young minds in her classroom. Located at Northside Elementary School, Bolt’s refurbished classroom now hosts new tables and chairs, a dazzling disco ball, and a hydroponic tower provided for growing plants.

The innovative renovation for Bolt’s space is a symbol of appreciation. Commenting on these striking transformations, Rock Hill School Superintendent Dr. Tommy Schmolze said, “A lot of entities came together to make this work, but it’s so worth it when you can see the expression on her face.” The spirited competition saw more than 70 teachers being nominated for the classroom makeover.

Bringing Learning to Life

A passionate Bolt shared her excitement over her new classroom, emphasizing the empowering environment it will cultivate for her students to learn and explore. “First grade has a plant unit, so we’re gonna start growing plants at the beginning of the year,” she explained. “It brings learning to life.”

What adds a special touch to this grand surprise is that the nominations came from the very children Bolt has been teaching over the years. Expressing her feelings she said, “That means more than anything else. That I’ve inspired kids enough for them to think that I deserve an inspiring classroom – it’s humbling and it makes me want to strive to be even better at this job.”

Ripple Effect of Recognition: More Winners Across the City

The rewarding wave of recognition extends beyond Bolt’s revitalized classroom. Two other teachers, Paul Johnson of Dutchman Creek Middle and Allison Jordan of Northwestern, also received brand-new classrooms as they blaze into the new school year. Each classroom echoes with the shared sentiment of inspiring change and fostering an active learning environment for every student that steps into these innovative spaces.

This effort reflects the determination and dedication of the Rock Hill community and school authorities to enrich the education landscape, celebrating those who tirelessly foster the curiosity and knowledge within the minds of the city’s students.