Columbia County Teacher Top 10 Finalist for State Title

For the first time since 2011, the Columbia County School District Teacher-of-the Year has been named a Top 10 Finalist for the State Teacher-of-the-Year honors.

Crystal McDowell, who teaches Science and Anatomy at Greenbrier High School, was named the Columbia County School District Teacher-of-the-Year in October.

Today, McDowell was recognized during a surprise presentation in her classroom by State School Superintendent Dr. Richard Woods, Columbia County School District Superintendent Dr. Steve Flynt and Greenbrier High School Principal Chip Fulmer.

McDowell is the ninth CCSD Teacher-of-the-Year to be named a finalist for the state's top honor.  That means she'll meet with a panel of judges for formal interviews and speeches prior to the selection of the 2025 Teacher-of-the-Year.

"What an honor. I just want to say, that first and foremost, the students are who this is all about, they're why I do what I do every day.  It means the world to be able to represent our county, and potentially represent our state, and to be able to do everything I can to make it a wonderful experience for our kids," said McDowell.

Crystal teaches AP Biology, Biology, Human Anatomy and Physiology, and Genetics at Greenbrier High School.  She earned her B.S. in Science Education from North Carolina State University in 2000 and began her career as a science educator at North Iredell High School.  Her family moved to Missouri in 2010 where she taught science at Lafayette High School and then served as the 6-12 Science Curriculum Coordinator.  She earned her MS and Ed.S in Curriculum and Instruction from Missouri Baptist University, focusing her action research on case study teaching to increase student engagement and achievement in the science classroom.

When Crystal's family moved to Georgia, she taught at Thomson High School for one year, then began teaching at Greenbrier High School where she has been for the last five years.

This year, Crystal was one of three finalists for the NSTA Shell National Science Teacher Award.  She is a Georgia finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

Spring break always arrives at just the right time. It's when the holiday cheer has totally worn off, and it's also right when spring is around the corner but it's not quite here yet. I remember loving spring break in school. But, even if you're not in school or college anymore, why not take a fun spring break trip this year? Thankfully, there are plenty of trendy, cheap spring break destinations available. One Georgia spot is even among the best cheap spring break trips in the US.

If you want to get the most bang for your buck, as they say, stay close to home. It doesn't have to be a staycation. But, why not travel to a town that you've never been to that's within road trip distance? Of course, if you live in a cold climate, you might want to travel to a hot spot. The good news is that a lot of warm spring break destinations have great rates, because tourist is simply their business. So, if you go to a popular spring break spot, chances are they'll have some good deals and be able to cut you a good deal due to just how many people who travel there each year.

The perfect spring break destination is really about getting away from it all. You want a place that fun and exciting. But, you also want a spot that really helps you break away from routine and, hopefully, your electronic devises. Another bonus is if you find a spring break destination near friends who you maybe haven't seen in a while. It can be a really fun trip to find a central location and meet up with long-lost friends.

Read on for some trendy, cheap spring break trips in the United States, including the Georgia one. Here's hoping for a super fun spring vacation. Oh, these work for summer, too.

Vegas can be fun, but Atlantic City offers that fun of Vegas on the East Coast. You can enjoy the entertainment and other activities the city has to offer. You can also explore the boardwalks and beaches.

https://www.visitatlanticcity.com/

It might seem trite, but going to Orlando, Florida, for spring break is really tops. Orlando has some of the best deals you'll find, since they are obviously such a major tourist destination. And, there's Disney World. Enough said.

https://www.visitflorida.com/places-to-go/central/orlando/

If you want a more traditional spring break, try Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It's one of the hottest spring break destinations in the United States. It's also a pretty reasonable trip, with good, fairly inexpensive lodging options.

https://www.myrtlebeach.com/

There's nothing wrong with a little education on your spring break, right? Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has a rich history. It's known for that history and rich historical content. Really exploring Philly can be a great way to spend a spring break.

https://www.visitphilly.com/

Detroit is super hot, thanks to their Lions doing so well in the NFL this season. The Motor City has been splashed on the screen during playoff games, and people are starting to see the beauty of this city. The Detroit River is gorgeous in the springtime. There's lots to do in Detroit, too, from the Henry Ford Museum to GreenField Village to live music.

https://visitdetroit.com/

Las Vegas, Nevada, offers a fun, wild (if you want it to be) spring break destination. The weather is usually good in the springtime, and there's always lots to do. Hit up the casinos or check out one of Vegas' many live shows.

https://www.visitlasvegas.com/

Sure, Atlanta, Georgia is a big tourist spot. But, if you want to try something new, Macon is a growing hotspot. Macon offers a revitalized downtown area, with lots of shopping and activities for families. The city also has a vibrant music scene. What's not to love?

https://www.exploregeorgia.org/city/macon

Charlotte, North Carolina, is a unique spot to pick for a spring break. We mean unique in a good way. The Queen City offers lots of breweries, historical areas and scenic views. It can be a low-key but fun spring trip destination.

https://www.visitnc.com/charlotte-region