WARRENVILLE — Once in the medical field and now an educator, a teacher at the Aiken County Career and Technology Center has been named a finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year.
Dr. Christie Palladino discovered her passion for teaching through years spent caring for patients as an obstetrician-gynecologist and conducting health science education research, work that revealed to her the impact of helping others learn and grow.
Inspired by that realization, Palladino transitioned from medicine to education, where she now brings her real-world experience to students.
She has been teaching at the Career and Technology Center for 12 years where she leads a biomedical science program. A scholar, Palladino has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed presentations and publications.
She is also an adjunct professor at Aiken Technical College and serves on the American Medical Laboratory Education Programs Student Recruitment Task Force, contributing to national efforts to strengthen the future healthcare workforce.
Palladino won the title of Aiken County Public School Teacher of the Year for the 2025-26 school year.
“Dr. Christie Palladino is a remarkable example of how one educator’s calling can change countless lives,” said State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver. “Her journey — from an accomplished physician and researcher to a gifted teacher — reflects both deep compassion and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With more than 100 peer reviewed publications and a classroom that inspires future healers every day, Dr. Palladino pours her heart into helping students realize their full potential. Her leadership, innovation and steadfast devotion to her students make her an extraordinary blessing to Aiken County and to our entire state.”
“Dr. Palladino’s success is a direct reflection of her passion. She chose this profession out of a genuine desire to shape the next generation, and her focus on putting students at the center of every lesson is what sets her apart. She represents the very best of Aiken County Public Schools,” said Dr. Corey Murphy, Aiken County Public School District Superintendent.
As a finalist for Teacher of the Year, Palladino will receive $10,000 and advance to the next stage of the state Teacher of the Year Competition which involves an interview with a panel of expert judges.
The winner receives a total of $25,000 and is provided with a brand-new BMW to use while serving for one year as an ambassador providing mentoring, attending speaking engagements, working with Teacher Cadets and Teaching Fellows, and serving as the state spokesperson for over 65,000 educators.
The winner of the State Teacher of the Year competition will be announced April 23 in Columbia.
