MONARCH — Dena Jones Addis has been selected as 2012-2013 Teacher of the Year at Monarch Elementary School. Faculty members chose Addis based on her many qualities as a teacher, professional leader, mentor, and community member.
A lifelong resident of Union County, Addis is a graduate of Union High School. She holds a bachelor of science degree in special education and elementary education from Winthrop University. Addis also holds a master’s degree from Converse College in special education, and recently obtained a second master’s degree from Converse College in school administration and supervision. Addis has taught in Union County for 17 years, with six of those years being at Monarch Elementary School as Literacy Specialist and Curriculum Coach.
Addis is married to Donald Addis, and they are the parents of Kayley Jayne, 11, a fifth-grader at Monarch Elementary School. Dena Addis is the daughter of Dean and Jane Jones and has one sister, Joye Ivey.
Addis strives to improve the quality of education by being involved as a member of Monarch Elementary School PTO and School Improvement Council. She is a member of Monarch Elementary School Leadership Team, Palmetto State Teachers Association, and Delta Kappa Gamma Society. She also serves as school liaison through the partnership school NetSCOPE grant with Winthrop University. She also organizes Monarch Elementary School Family Reading and Writing Nights that supports parents in assisting their children’s literacy needs.
As a member of Jonesville Baptist Church, Addis has taught Sunday School and assisted with Vacation Bible School. She has served on the Children and Youth Committee and also teaches Children’s Church.
When asked about her philosophy of education, Mrs. Addis said: “I believe there are three important attributes that successful educators must encompass: enthusiasm, passion, and courage. More importantly, I believe in children. Every child has the power to become whatever he dreams of becoming. It is my job to consider each child as an individual and provide that child a safe and caring environment that promotes growth.”
Addis said that Karen Hibbard, her kindergarten teacher, was her inspiration to join the teaching profession. She said that Mrs. Hibbard believed in her from day one.
“Every elementary school in South Carolina should have a Dena Addis on its staff,” Principal Anita Maness said. “An administrator’s job is made easier, students and teachers receive extra help, and the world is made better because of her love for education and wanting each person to excel.”
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