If you’ve ever walked into Elizabeth Jenkins’ classroom at Hampton Intermediate School, you’ve probably heard laughter, lively discussion, and the unmistakable buzz of students deeply engaged in learning. That’s because Jenkins doesn’t just teach; she transforms her classroom into a hub of collaboration, creativity, and community.
That’s the way a news release from the Hampton County, South Carolina School District describes Jenkins, a Columbia International University Master of Education student-intern in Educational Leadership. She has been named the Hampton County School District 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year.
Jenkins teaches fifth grade featuring small group collaboration and discussions. Her students are excelling as nearly 87% of them met or exceeded English Language Arts (ELA) standards.
“I love the power of communication and collaboration,” Jenkins says. “When students learn to listen, speak respectfully, and build on each other’s ideas, they don’t just grow academically — they grow as people.”
Jenkins is also involved outside the classroom, serving as a summer school coordinator and as a member of the School Improvement Council, while also attending extra-curricular activities such as athletic events and festivals.
“Students are at the center of everything I do,” Jenkins says. “Their success is my success, and I’m here to cheer them on every step of the way.”
Jenkins is scheduled to graduate from CIU with her Master of Education degree in May. She already holds a Bible and Theology Certificate from the CIU Seminary & School of Counseling in 2016.
(Photo courtesy of the Hampton County School District)
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