John Paul Sellars, fourth-grade science, math and social studies teacher at Knightsville Elementary School, is one of four South Carolina teachers selected to attend the 2009 Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy. This year’s Academy is scheduled for July 19-24 at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, N.J. Participants have all expenses paid for this intense training in math and science instruction.
More than 1,600 teachers applied for the 100 slots available in this special learning environment for teachers. The selection panel based their decision on teachers’ qualifications, dedication to inspiring students at an early age and overall commitment to enhancing the teaching profession.
Sellars has taught for three years and currently serves as the grade chair of the fourth-grade team at Knightsville. His colleagues selected him as the 2008-2009 Teacher of the Year for Knightsville Elementary. Knightsville Principal Anita Putillion said, “John Paul takes initiative to stay on the cutting edge of best practices in education. He attends workshops and researches current teaching techniques in order to stay abreast and better serve his students.”