Leaphart Elementary STEAM Magnet School fourth grade teacher Dr. Paul Duggan has been selected as a Spring 2026 recipient of the Coaching Teacher Award of Excellence from the University of South Carolina College of Education.
The award recognizes outstanding educators who demonstrate excellence in mentoring and supporting future teachers through clinical experiences. Duggan was honored for his commitment to guiding teacher candidates and fostering a collaborative, student-centered learning environment.
“It is a privilege to be recognized by the University of South Carolina with the Coaching Teacher Award of Excellence,” Duggan said. “I believe strong schools are built through mentorship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to student success. Supporting and guiding future teachers is not only an honor, but it is also essential to the future of education.”
Representatives from the College of Education, including Dean Thomas Hodges and Chris Burkett, along with members of the clinical experience team, visited Leaphart Elementary School April 28 to personally present the award. The College expressed its appreciation for educators like Duggan who play a critical role in preparing the next generation of teachers.
The Coaching Teacher Award of Excellence was established by the University of South Carolina’s Clinical Experiences division within Gamecock EdQuarters in 2019 to strengthen partnerships with schools and districts while recognizing exemplary mentor teachers. Eligible recipients must be USC Expanded ADEPT 4.0/Coaching Teacher trained and have served as a mentor for at least one semester.
Award recipients are selected through a nomination and review process conducted by a committee that includes public school representatives, College of Education faculty, and Clinical Experiences staff. Nominations are submitted by colleagues, faculty, or former interns and must include letters of support highlighting the nominee’s impact.
“There is no greater gift to the field of education than a teacher who mentors and coaches others,” Leaphart Elementary School Principal Courtney Sims said. “Dr. Paul Duggan is a trailblazer in the field, taking his talent and pouring it into the next generation of classroom leaders. This award from USC is a fitting tribute to an outstanding teacher who leads by example and serves with his whole heart.”
