NEWS

Corey Bedenbaugh ’12 has been named the 2026 South Carolina Teacher of the Year. The announcement came during an event at the Governor’s Mansion on Thursday, April 23. Known for his dedication and unwavering commitment to his students, Bedenbaugh is making a lasting impact as an eighth-grade social studies teacher at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School. 
 

“Corey is a dedicated educator who believes great teachers don’t just teach – they inspire,” said State Superintendent Ellen Weaver. “Shaped by his own former teachers, he carries forward their legacy by preparing students for both academic success and life.”

Bedenbaugh credits former Newberry College professor Dr. Cindy Van Buren for setting him on his career path. "She had the biggest impact on me—she was amazing for all of us education majors,” he said. “I’ll never forget the legendary Dr. Jesse Scott, Mrs. Cathy Mitchell, Dr. Glenna Zeak, and Dr. Chris Burkett. I’m so grateful for each of them and the role they played in my journey."

Bedenbaugh earned a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Phoenix and is in his 11^th year of teaching. Before his tenure at Batesburg-Leesville Middle School, he taught for several years at Pelion Middle School. He is committed to helping students succeed both in and out of the classroom, serving as a JV girls basketball coach, sponsoring the school’s student council and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and creating the program “Bow Ties with Bedenbaugh,” a mentorship program that teaches life skills to young men.   

As the state’s Teacher of the Year, Bedenbaugh will receive $25,000 and be provided with a new BMW for one year as a roving ambassador providing mentoring, attending speaking engagements, working with Teacher Cadets and Teaching Fellows, leading the State Teacher Forum, and serving as the state spokesperson for over 64,000 educators.

Through his work, Corey continues to shape the next generation with integrity, compassion, and purpose, making his alma mater proud every step of the way.

“When our students become doctors, lawyers, teachers, nurses, mechanics, and community leaders, they will remember what we have done as teachers to prepare them for the paths they have taken,” Bedenbaugh said. “The teaching profession matters each and every day.”

To learn more about Newberry College’s Teacher Education program, visit www.newberry.edu/academics/areas-of-study/teacher-education/teacher-education. 

About South Carolina’s Teacher of the Year Program:
South Carolina’s Teacher of the Year program—among the strongest in the nation—recognizes outstanding educators and strengthens the teaching profession through celebration, recruitment, and retention.