Arlene Neely, a social studies teacher at Northside Middle School, was honored with the Teacher of the Game recognition, part of a partnership between Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union and the University of South Carolina. Neely was celebrated during the USC-LSU football game on September 14, where she received $1,000, tickets to the game, and was acknowledged on the scoreboard and loudspeaker.
Neely’s nomination highlighted her unconventional path to teaching. After leaving college early for family reasons, she returned ten years later to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of South Carolina. Now, she fulfills her dream of teaching, where she is passionate about helping students recognize their potential and contribute to society.
Neely expressed her love for teaching, stating, “I enjoy creating an environment where everyone is included and where students feel like they belong.”
Dr. Tiffany Hall, principal of Northside Middle in Lexington School District Two, praised Neely’s resilience and dedication, saying, “Her journey to becoming a teacher is a testament to her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of her students.”
For more information on the Teacher of the Game program, visit palmettocitizens.org/teacherofthegame.
Teacher Arlene Neely, center, with Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union’s Emilie Lewis, director of community engagement, and Casey Cuthill, West Columbia branch manager, at Northside Middle School.
