LANDRUM–Kellie Smith, Media Specialist for Landrum High School (LHS) has been voted Spartanburg One Distinguished Literacy Teacher of the Year. Smith will take part in the Spartanburg County Distinguished Literacy Teacher finals and will represent District One. 

 

Smith was chosen out of five teachers in the district that were nominated by their colleagues for being a light of motivation to get kids to read. Each teacher nominated is also a huge encourager of understanding and inspiring a love for reading within their students. 

 

This will be Smiths fourth year as the Media Specialist for LHS. Smith commented, “[I] was so honored to be chosen for this award and grateful to work in a district that is dedicated to literacy and a love of reading. As a school librarian, I believe it is my job to help our students find the right books to complement their interests and help increase their abilities.” 

 

Smith has had a love of books for as long as she can remember and has always been an avid reader. She began as a teen assistant in the Spartanburg County Public Library system and it blossomed from there. 

 

She received her bachelor’s degree in science from Clemson University and went on to get her Masters in Library and Science technology from the University of South Carolina. She came to District One in 2013 and was promoted to the Media Specialist for LHS in 2016.

 

Since Smith has been the Media Specialist for LHS, the school introduced a new program along with hosting two book clubs, five recreational clubs and is a hub for student activity. 

 

Smith said, “[Her] firm belief is that reading, in any form, is an advantage that can help our students succeed beyond the walls of formats such as graphic novels and audiobooks. Reading for pleasure increases our awareness of the world and introduces our students to new ideas.” 

by Carson Parnell