Hartsville, S.C. -  December 6, 2017 - Coker College is now accepting applications for the Excellence in Teaching Scholarship, open to all educators in South Carolina who have been named Teacher of the Year and wish to pursue a Master's of Education at Coker College. The scholarship applies to all past and current Teachers of the Year, and it offers the final term of their graduate coursework at no cost. One outstanding teacher will also be a offered a full scholarship for their entire graduate education.

The Master of Education in Literacy Studies at Coker was developed in response to the needs of S.C. teachers. “Coker College decided to offer this program because educators in the area expressed a need and desire to develop a greater understanding of how to create effective learning environments that reach the individual needs of their students,” says Karen Carpenter, Dean of the Wiggins School of Education, Coker College. “Educators recognize the vital role strong literacy skills play in a child's school and life success. Teachers in the program examine and research effective literacy strategies and use the knowledge they gain to conduct action-based research.”

Carpenter says the scholarships are important for recognizing great educators in South Carolina. “The Excellence in Teaching scholarship was designed to honor and recognize teachers' commitment and passion for teaching and learning. This scholarship was founded on the belief that dedicated and innovative teachers should be recognized and provides the opportunity for Coker College to give back to the community,” she said.

The Literacy Studies degree is a hybrid program, with 12 online and in-person classes. This course of study can be completed in seven six-week terms. There is also an option to receive a Literacy Coach add-on with two additional classes. This schedule allows full-time teachers to work while earning their master’s degree.

Coker also offers Excellence in Teaching scholarships for the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instructional Technology.

The M.Ed. in Literacy Studies term begins in June 2018 and scholarship applications are due by April 1, 2018.

To learn more about the Excellence in Teaching scholarship visit coker.edu/excellence-teaching-scholarship.