2025-26 Teachers of the Year
Randy Emanuel Small: A Passionate Educator, Mentor, and Community Leader
Lee County, SC — In every great classroom, there is a teacher whose influence extends far beyond the walls of the school. Mr. Randy Emanuel Small is one of those teachers. Known for his commitment to education, mentorship, and community engagement, Mr. Small is making a meaningful impact on the lives of students and families across Lee County.
A proud graduate of Timmonsville High School, Mr. Small continued his educational journey at Benedict College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Studies. His academic background, combined with his passion for supporting youth, led him into the field of education, where he now thrives as a dedicated professional.
Over the past three years, Mr. Small has actively pursued professional growth through programs like Empowering Kings, Carolina CAP, and Darkness to Light. His commitment to continuous learning is further demonstrated through participation in J and J Mentorships, First Steps: Culturally Responsive Practices, and various professional affiliations, including the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Mr. Small’s excellence in the classroom has not gone unnoticed. He has earned several honors, including being named WTLX Teacher of the Week, receiving Perfect Attendance for three consecutive years, and being celebrated as Teacher of the Month for August 2024-2025. His recent completion of the rigorous Carolina CAP program marks a significant milestone in his professional development.
Outside of the classroom, Mr. Small serves as a beacon of service in the community. He volunteers as a coach, assists with voter registration efforts, and contributes to the Strengthening Families Program. His involvement in Empowering Kings through J and J Mentorship reflects his dedication to shaping the lives of young men with guidance, structure, and positive role modeling.
Mr. Small’s leadership, compassion, and tireless energy make him a standout figure in Lee County education. His work not only prepares students academically but also empowers them to become responsible, confident individuals prepared for life’s challenges.
Ms. Epps has led professional development initiatives, including the creation of a website focused on differentiation and growth mindset strategies for elementary classrooms. She actively participates in professional learning communities and serves as Grade-Level Chair for First Grade. Her professional development efforts reflect her passion for tailored instruction, student empowerment, and collaboration.
In addition to her educational leadership, Ms. Epps is developing plans for community involvement, aiming to provide tutoring in reading fluency and foundational math skills. Her teaching philosophy centers on responsiveness, reflection, and resilience. She models professionalism and fosters a supportive school climate through structured, student-centered learning environments.
Ms. Epps is a strong advocate for equity in education and believes in meeting students where they are to help them reach their full potential. Her vision for public education includes differentiated instruction, professional growth for teachers, and a culture of inclusive excellence.
Arlene Francis-Henry is a passionate and highly accomplished leader with a strong foundation in both education and community service. She is a PhD candidate in Organizational Leadership, holds multiple degrees and certifications in education, psychology, the arts, and leadership, and has served in teaching and administrative roles across Jamaica and the United States. Her contributions to professional development, mentoring, and curriculum design have significantly shaped her school’s instructional vision. She has been recognized with numerous awards for excellence in teaching, math instruction, and speech & drama. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom into her church and community, where she serves as a youth leader, public relations officer, and outreach program sponsor. Her teaching philosophy centers on attitude, empathy, high expectations, and a deep belief in every child’s potential. She is committed to fostering a positive school climate, supporting colleagues, and preparing students with 21st-century skills through data-driven, socially aware, and inclusive practices.
Ms. Deneisha Mckella is an accomplished educator with a robust academic foundation and a heart for service. She holds degrees and certifications from esteemed institutions, including a B.S. in Medical Technology from Northern Caribbean University, a Post Graduate Diploma in Education from the Vocational Training and Development Institute, and master's degrees in Project Management and Educational Leadership. She also holds an advanced certificate in Workforce Training and Development from Delaware State University.
As a member of the Lee County School District’s Professional Development Team, Ms. Mckella supports instructional improvement and professional growth across the district. She is also recognized for five years of dedicated service by the South Carolina Association of Student Councils. In her role as Student Council Advisor, she mentors student leaders, promotes civic engagement, and strengthens school culture through student-led events. Additionally, she has served as a Parent Educator, supporting caregivers through workshops and individual guidance.
Ms. Mckella is deeply committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and emotionally supportive learning environment. Her core attributes include empathy, adaptability, strong organization, and a passion for lifelong learning. She believes in the importance of building strong relationships with students and staff alike, and she contributes to a professional climate through her involvement in school improvement and morale-building efforts.
She is passionate about addressing critical issues in public education, including equity, mental health, teacher retention, and the thoughtful integration of technology. Her participation in a collaborative learning community focused on teacher efficacy significantly impacted her growth as both a teacher and a leader.
If selected as Lee County School District’s Teacher of the Year, Ms. Mckella would champion collaboration, resilience, and purpose. Her message would honor the quiet strength of educators, advocate for student-centered relationships, and highlight the transformative power of investing in teachers to secure student success.
Mr. Jamie Mack is a passionate educator and leader who brings a wealth of real-world experience and a deep dedication to student success. With degrees in Automotive Technology, Business Management, and Sports Administration, and currently pursuing a Master’s in Educational Administration at Grand Canyon University, Mr. Mack exemplifies lifelong learning and career versatility.
He actively engages in professional development through conferences such as the SC Education and Business Summit, SkillsUSA Leadership Conference, and the Automotive Instructor Conference. As the 2025-26 Lee Central High School Teacher of the Year and District Teacher of the Year nominee, he is recognized for excellence in the classroom and on the field, also earning multiple coaching awards.
His contributions extend beyond school walls. Through Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Mr. Mack participates in monthly litter pickups, Meals on Wheels, and community events like the Back to School Bash. He also leads the SkillsUSA Can Food Drive, supporting student leadership and civic engagement.
In the classroom, Mr. Mack’s passion for his subject matter is contagious. He prioritizes empathy, adaptability, and high standards while building strong relationships with students and staff alike. He fosters a supportive and structured learning environment where all students are encouraged to succeed.
Mr. Mack is a strong voice for addressing teacher shortages and student mental health—two of the most pressing challenges facing public education today. Through participation in PLCs and collaboration with Lower Richland High School instructional coaches, he has enhanced his instructional strategies to better prepare students for careers.
As a nominee for Teacher of the Year, Mr. Mack's message is one of empowerment, equity, and community. He believes that every student deserves to be seen, valued, and equipped to reach their full potential—and that when we come together as educators and community members, we can shape a brighter future for all.