Teacher of the Year
SEES Teacher of the Year
Kellie Lee serves as the Technology teacher for Kindergarten through Fifth grade at South Effingham Elementary School in Guyton, Georgia. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Southern University. Named Teacher of the Year for the 2024-2025 school year at South Effingham Elementary, she also holds a certification in Project Lead the Way.
In April 2023, Lee was a featured speaker at the National Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference in Washington, DC, where she demonstrated her commitment to special education advocacy. She spoke with lobbyists, state representatives, and members of the Department of Education. Within her school, Lee serves as a grade level chair and participates in the Leadership Team, Media Committee, and Hospitality Committee.
Lee actively engages in community involvement, working with the Cure Childhood Cancer Foundation to organize silent auction fundraisers, helping raise over $15,000 in the past year. She also supports the Low Country Down Syndrome Society, underscoring her dedication to special needs advocacy.
Her teaching philosophy centers on creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where all students feel valued and safe. Lee emphasizes communication and problem-solving skills for young learners, believing these are essential for their success. She prioritizes inclusion, ensuring that students of all abilities are exposed to diverse environments. Her inclusive approach fosters a caring community where every student feels valued, cultivating opportunities for all and promoting kindness and empathy.
