BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – A Berkeley County teacher is now in the running for one of the state’s top education honors.
Alex Wharton, a special services teacher at Berkeley High School in Moncks Corner, has been named one of five finalists for South Carolina Teacher of the Year. The announcement came as a surprise Tuesday morning, when State Superintendent Ellen Weaver visited Wharton’s classroom to deliver the news in front of students, colleagues and family.
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“This is truly one of the most joyful opportunities that I have in this job…being able to recognize and celebrate the commitment, the love and the hard work that teachers like Alex pour into their classrooms and into their students every single day,” Weaver said.
Wharton, who was named Berkeley County School District’s Teacher of the Year in 2025, has spent 34 years in education, including 24 years teaching in the Caribbean and eight years in South Carolina.
District leaders say her impact reaches far beyond the classroom.
“There could not be a better person to receive this honor… and represent Berkeley County,” said BCSD Superintendent Dr. Anthony S. Dixon. “She pours into everyone around her, and everyone has something great to say about her.”
Known for incorporating real-world life and work skills into her lessons, Wharton has built a reputation as both a dedicated educator and a strong advocate for her students.
“It’s a lot of grind, a lot of work without ‘thank you,’ so I felt like this was honoring my 34 years of service to children,” Wharton said. “I felt blessed.”
The surprise celebration included a $10,000 award from the South Carolina Department of Education, as well as a school-wide celebration, complete with a drumline-led victory lap through the halls of Berkeley High.
Wharton was joined by her husband and son for the moment. Her son, a recent Berkeley High graduate, is now studying education at Winthrop University.
School leaders say Wharton’s passion for both students and fellow teachers sets her apart.
“She believes in the mission that all students can succeed, and she pours her heart and soul into the art of teaching,” said Berkeley High Principal Heather Ducker. “She isn’t afraid to roll her sleeves up and help a fellow colleague when they need it.”
For Wharton, the recognition is both humbling and motivating.
“Berkeley High School is my family away from my family,” she said. “I wouldn’t trade being a Stag for anything else.”
The South Carolina Teacher of the Year will be announced April 23.
