WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. -- A longtime teacher at Fulmer Middle School has been selected as the 2018 inductee into Lexington Two’s Heroes and Heroines Society, the district’s most prestigious honor for retired educators.
Marie Dawkins Gregory, known to many simply as “Coach,” dedicated countless hours as a colleague, mentor, and friend of Fulmer over her 35-year career as a Physical Education teacher and coach, according to her nomination. She passed away in fall 2017.
A National Board Certified teacher, Gregory won many honors during her career, among them South Carolina Middle School Physical Education Teacher of the Year. She was innovative in her approach to student learning, mentored Physical Education teachers throughout South Carolina, and was an expert in clinical practices with undergraduate students. She coached all women’s sports at Fulmer Middle and is considered a “cornerstone” of Fulmer athletics.
“Marie Gregory embodied the characteristics of determination, dedication, and commitment to making adolescents more physically, socially, and emotionally engaged,” said Fulmer Middle Principal Megan Carrero. “High-energy with relentless passion is how many describe her pursuit of excellence in the field of Physical Education and women's sports, as she inspired generations of students and student-athletes in Fulmer's community.”
A reception will be held in her honor at 6:15 p.m. Thursday, October 18, before the regular meeting of the Lexington Two Board of Trustees. Family members will be on hand to accept the award.
The Heroes and Heroines Society was started in 1990 to recognize retired educators who dedicated their lives to service in the classroom, guidance office or media center. Gregory is the 34th honoree to be chosen by district employees as representing the “best of the best” in Lexington Two schools.