Anderson University College of Education graduate Blake Bishop has been named to the board of the Palmetto State Teachers Association (PSTA) for District 3. District 3 encompasses Anderson, Oconee, Pickens, Abbeville, Greenwood, McCormick, Edgefield, Saluda, Aiken, Barnwell and Allendale counties.
Bishop teaches history, government and economics at Ware Shoals High School, located in Greenwood County School District 51. He is also assistant director of Squad 51, an immediate responder group where students gain experience in first aid, CPR and other essential first responder skills. In addition, he assists with percussion in the school’s marching band.
Bishop and his wife, who is also a teacher, have fallen in love with Ware Shoals, feeling very much a part of this close-knit community located in northern Greenwood County. He feels that Ware Shoals High School reflects that same sense of community.
In 2024, Bishop was one of two finalists from Anderson University for the South Carolina Teacher of the Year (AU graduate Braden Wilson was named the state’s teacher of the year).
A fifth-generation educator who is now in his sixth year of teaching, Bishop chose a career in education out of a desire to work in a field where he could make a positive impact on as many others as possible.
As he considered college choices, Anderson University stood out.
“I wanted somewhere that was going to provide the support academically and spiritually that I felt I needed. I looked at some of the alternatives that were available, and Anderson was just right for me,” he said. “Everyone from the very beginning, before I was even a student, made it so clear that there was going to be that level of investment in me as a student, as a future teacher. I appreciated that and continue to appreciate it.”
Bishop feels blessed to have been a part of Anderson University’s Teaching Fellows program, instilling in him the principles of servant leadership he continues to apply as an educator.
“The support that I got from that program was wonderful and I’m still so grateful for it,” he said. “This past year has really been an extra highlight for me on just how well that program prepared me.”
Bishop also feels his professors in the AU College of Education “went out of their way” to help him succeed in his program. He also feels that his education at AU, consistent with Anderson’s pillar of Great Academics, helped him easily transition into graduate studies at another institution.
“I had such a high expectation put on my work in undergrad that it was not a culture shift to go into graduate work. It was like starting right back up where I left off,” said Bishop, adding that he’s considering the possibility of doctoral work someday.
Since first joining the Palmetto State Teachers Association as a student at Anderson University, Bishop appreciates the many valuable ways the organization has helped him in his career and promotes high-quality education across South Carolina. He looks forward to advocating for his education colleagues in his new leadership role.
“Blake’s experience as a classroom teacher as well as an Honor Roll Teacher this year will be a valuable addition to our board of directors,” said Toni Chewning, PSTA director of activities. “He is always willing to step up and help whether it’s facilitating sessions during our EdCamp or serving a meal to teachers at an event. He serves as a role-model for early career teachers and a supportive colleague to veteran teachers. He will work hard to represent our members from the Greenwood area and our staff is looking forward to working with him as a board member. He is a true teacher leader.”
“I would say that one of the things that I really appreciate so much about the PSTA is how accessible leadership always has been from when I first joined to especially now, but they have always been super accessible and at the front of everything,” he said. “It’s super easy to get the PSTA to show up and do professional development or to come to an event and speak about legislative issues going on in the state. It’s a fantastic resource.”
Bishop readily admits that teaching isn’t an easy profession, but if someone wishing to enter education is realistic about the challenges and has a passion for teaching, he believes that they will find it to be a rewarding profession. He’s grateful to Anderson’s Teaching Fellows program, as well as CERRA (Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention, and Advancement) programs, which includes Teacher Cadets and several opportunities for students to explore the field of teaching through a variety of learning experiences.
The Anderson University College of Education
The Anderson University College of Education focuses on the intellectual development of the student while being attentive to the ideals of character, servant leadership and cultural engagement. Programs are offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels, onsite or online. Details can be found here.