Contributed Dr. Theresa Riley
Latest Articles:

Richland School District Two students demonstrate leadership through community service
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | December 25, 2025
Richland School District Two continues to prioritize the development of empathetic, civic-minded leaders through its student-led service-learning programs. This year, the district’s five high schools—working in coordination with elementary and middle schools—successfully executed a series of initiatives designed to provide critical support to families and nonprofit organizations throughout the Midlands and internationally. These annual projects are more than just fundraisers.... READ MORE >

Richland Two 4K Child Development application process starts in February
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | November 13, 2025
The application period for parents seeking to enroll their children in the Richland School District Two Center for Child Development opens February 1, 2026. Parents are urged to start preparing now and familiarizing themselves with the application process as space will be limited. Richland Two offers free 4K Child Development classes to students who qualify based on developmental readiness, Pupils... READ MORE >

Richland Two educators named finalists for AVID Global Achievement Awards
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | October 30, 2025
Richland School District Two has announced two dedicated educators have been named finalists for the prestigious AVID Global Achievement Awards. These awards, celebrating AVID’s 45th anniversary, recognize exceptional leaders and teams who embody the AVID mission of advancing college and career readiness for all students through high expectations, rigorous instruction, and unwavering support. Dr. Faith Kendall, a reading coach at... READ MORE >

SCASP honors Richland Two psychologist with 2025 Outstanding Contributions in School Psychology Award
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | October 23, 2025
The South Carolina Association of School Psychologists (SCASP) has named Dr. Sarah Bassin Bruton as the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Contributions in the Field of School Psychology Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates Dr. Bassin Bruton’s profound and sustained impact as an exceptional practitioner, leader, mentor, and advocate for students, families, and educators across South Carolina. Known for her compassionate,... READ MORE >

Richland Two announces 2025-2026 District Teacher of the Year
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | September 18, 2025
Richland School District Two has announced that Jelayne King, a special education teacher at Pontiac Elementary School, has been named the 2025–2026 District Teacher of the Year. Superintendent Dr. Kim D. Moore, members of the Board of Trustees, and district leaders surprised King with the honor recently. Now in her 18th year in education, King says her passion for teaching... READ MORE >

Blythewood Middle School teacher selected as a Palmetto Citizens Teacher of the Game honoree
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | September 18, 2025
Blythewood Middle School teacher Jordan Atkinson has been selected as a 2025 Palmetto Citizens Teacher of the Game honoree. The program, presented by Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union in partnership with the University of South Carolina’s Gamecock Athletics, recognizes outstanding South Carolina educators during Gamecock football home games. “I feel a strong sense of purpose in my work, knowing I... READ MORE >

Richland Two offers Gold Card privileges for seniors
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | September 11, 2025
Richland School District Two is pleased to offer Gold Card privileges to senior citizens and district retirees. The Richland Two Gold Card provides outstanding opportunities to enjoy district-sponsored events and activities at no cost or at a reduced rate. Gold Cards are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., at the Richland Two District Office at R2i2, located at 763... READ MORE >

Richland Two high schools ranked among nation’s best
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | September 11, 2025
All five high schools in Richland School District Two have been named among the nation’s best, according to the latest rankings from U.S. News & World Report. Blythewood High School, Richland Northeast High School, Ridge View High School, Spring Valley High School, and Westwood High School also earned recognition among the top high schools in Columbia and South Carolina. Leading... READ MORE >

More good news for Richland Two Magnet programs
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | September 11, 2025
Richland School District Two continues to shine as a state and national leader in innovative magnet education. Magnet Schools of America (MSA) recently announced the Center for Inquiry earned national certification. Nationally Certified Schools provide high-quality, innovative learning opportunities that inspire academic achievement, promote diversity, and expand choice for families. Adding to this success, six Richland Two schools have been... READ MORE >

Richland Two announces five finalists for 2025-2026 District Teacher of the Year
Contributed by Dr. Theresa Riley | August 28, 2025
Richland School District Two has announced its five finalists for 2025-2026 District Teacher of the Year. The finalists and their schools are Meredith Blocker, Blythewood High School; Jelayne King, Pontiac Elementary School; Elisabeth Luck, Lake Carolina Upper Elementary School; Abigail Taylor, Bethel-Hanberry Elementary School; and Joy Walker, Kelly Mill Med Pro Middle School. Meredith Blocker teaches Spanish and is chair... READ MORE >


