The Lancaster County School District is excited to announce the induction of Shirnetha Belk, Suzan Courtney, Paul McKenzie, and Reo King into the Education Hall of Fame.
Shirnetha Belk taught in LCSD for thirty-four years beginning her career at Erwin Elementary School in 1975 and later served at Barr Street Junior High School, Buford Middle School, and Eastside Academy. Yokima Cureton Perez shared, “As her first principal and a long-time friend, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power she brings to education-a power that transcends the classroom to profoundly impact the lives of children and adults alike.”
Suzan Courtney taught for thirty-three years, thirty-two of which were in LCSD at Indian Land High and Buford High. She was introduced by her daughter Leslie Plyler and by Jenny Mills, Buford High School teacher who stated in her nomination, “She instilled a love of literature and writing in me as well as taught me the importance of seeking excellence in every aspect of my life.”
Paul McKenzie served LCSD as Director of Research and Development for twenty-five years. Dr. McKenzie was introduced by Lancaster County Councilwoman and Hall of Fame member, Charlene McGriff and Sharon Novinger, Executive Director of Lancaster County Partners for Youth who shared that since moving to Lancaster in 1999, Dr. McKenzie has authored over $185,000,000.00 of APPROVED grants for the betterment of Lancaster County.
Reo King taught for thirty-six years, thirty of which were in LCSD at Kershaw Elementary School. Kelli Overcash, Kershaw Elementary School Principal shared, “She exemplifies a true servant leader, consistently placing the needs of others above her own. She has dedicated her life to uplifting those around her.” She founded Mt. Calvary Outreach Summer Program, which now serves up to 100 students ages 3-15 for six to eight weeks each summer.
Nominees for the Lancaster County School District Hall of Fame may come from the following categories with no specific number required in each category: Teacher, Administrator, Board member, Community member (civic leader, politician or friend of education). Nominations are open annually May through the end of January each year.
Ten international teachers who will be returning to their home country after five years of service were recognized with a Service Award.
Forty-seven retirees were honored for their commitment to excellence. The retirees included individuals from March 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026.
The celebration was held at the Lancaster Multipurpose Building located at 870 Roddey Drive, Lancaster, South Carolina. The Lancaster High School JROTC led the Pledge of Allegiance and presented the colors. Chiffon Dinkins, LCSD Receptionist performed the National Anthem. Superintendent, Dr. Norris Williams welcomed guests and invited them to dine on a meal catered by My Sistas and I Catering, LLC. Following the meal, international teachers with five years of service received a Service Award. Retirees received a Tree of Life Bookend with an inscribed plate that read “In appreciation for your timeless service and dedication”. Dr. Carl Carpenter, II, Chief Human Resources Officer, Dr. Williams and Mr. Melvin Stroble, LCSD Board Chair congratulated retirees and thanked them for their commitment to serving our students and community. Mr. Stroble closed the evening by thanking each individual for their contributions and encouraging them to remain connected by following the district on Facebook and Instagram and by downloading the Lancaster County School District app. The evening showcased how connections bring us together and make a lasting impact.
