Rona Stuart, a teacher at Spring Valley High School, has been named the 2026 STATE History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Since 2004, this distinguished award has recognized exceptional K–12 educators for their remarkable work in teaching American history.
“History teachers play an essential role in helping students understand the past, build critical thinking skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the people and events that shaped our nation,” says James G. Basker, president and CEO of the Gilder Lehrman Institute. “We are proud to recognize educators who go above and beyond to make history engaging, meaningful, and relevant in their classrooms.”
The annual recognition program, presented by the Gilder Lehrman Institute—the nation’s leading nonprofit for K–12 American history education—celebrates one outstanding teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. Territories. It recognizes educators for their dedication, creativity, and effective use of primary sources. Nominees are recommended by students, colleagues, or school leaders and selected by state committees of historians and educators.
Rona Stuart, a veteran educator with over two decades of classroom experience, is the Social Studies Instructional Leader at Spring Valley High School. Recognized as the 2024–2025 Richland District Two District Teacher of the Year, she brings unwavering passion to teaching U.S. History and an equal dedication to the success and well-being of her students.
“Rona Stuart represents the very best of Richland Two,” said Richland Two Superintendent Dr. Kim Moore. “Her passion for teaching American history, commitment to academic excellence, and ability to inspire students to think critically and engage with the world around them make her an extraordinary educator. We are incredibly proud of this well-deserved recognition and congratulate her on being named South Carolina’s 2026 History Teacher of the Year.”
As the 2026 STATE History Teacher of the Year, Stuart will receive a $1,000 honorarium, a curated collection of American history books and educational materials from the Gilder Lehrman Institute, and recognition at a local ceremony. She will also join 52 other honorees as a finalist for the 2026 National History Teacher of the Year Award.