Gray Collegiate Academy announced that five of its teachers have been recognized by the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) for exceptional academic performance during the 2024-2025 school year.

Through the SCDE’s Strategic Compensation Pilot Program, which rewards educators for measurable student growth, Gray Collegiate teachers collectively earned $73,760 in performance bonuses.

The recognized teachers are:

• Madison Ryan, Math (Algebra 1)
• Kristi Hall, SCReady ELA
• Camille Johnson, SCReady ELA
• Melissa Setzler, SCReady Math
• Shane Hutto, SCReady Math

The Strategic Compensation Pilot Program recognizes teachers who make a significant impact on student learning and achievement. In its first round, the SCDE awarded more than $2.5 million to public school teachers statewide for demonstrated excellence in the classroom.

“Gray Collegiate Academy is excellent academically because of our teachers,” said Principal Dr. Brian Newsome. “They are dedicated to ensuring that every student is prepared for success when they leave our school, and they go above and beyond every day to make that happen. We are thrilled to see these outstanding educators recognized at the state level for the difference that they’re making in their classrooms.”

Gray Collegiate continues to set the standard for academic excellence. The school has recently earned an “Excellent” rating on both its middle and high school South Carolina State Report Cards, reflecting its ongoing commitment to student success. Gray has maintained this top rating since 2019 and boasts a 99%+ graduation rate for more than five consecutive years.

Gray Collegiate Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school serving grades 6-12 at campuses in West Columbia and Irmo. With a strong focus on dual-credit and college readiness, Gray prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. The school is authorized by the Charter Institute at Erskine. For more information, visit www.graycollegiateacademy.org/.