Crestwood's Rios wins January High School Teacher of the Month, presented by Morris College

Ileana Rios-Alicea, a modern languages teacher at Crestwood High School, won the January High School Teacher of the Month contest. Presented by Morris College, and similar to a previous educator-focused contest Morris College also facilitated through the newspaper, the public is asked to nominate their favorite high school teachers in Sumter's public and private schools. After the nomination period, the public votes between finalists determined by The Sumter Item staff. The winner receives a $50 gift certificate to a local business, a certificate and swag from Morris College.

Ileana Rios-Alicea - Crestwood High School

"Ms. Rios serves as a motivation for students and adults at Crestwood. She greets them with a smile, welcomes with kind comforting words. She is respectful and encouraging to the parents. She works well with our ELL population. You ask for assistance for any task and she instantly volunteers. She is engaged in the school life and very creative. Her classroom is beautifully decorated and inviting."