Rock Hill, South Carolina, December 10, 2025
Principal Erica McCray of Riverwalk Academy in Rock Hill, South Carolina, has been awarded the Milken Educator Award for her outstanding contributions to education. The award, presented during a surprise assembly, includes a $25,000 cash prize and acknowledges McCray’s innovative leadership in project-based learning and community engagement, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The recognition highlights her dedication to fostering a supportive educational environment and the positive impact she has had on both students and faculty at her school.
Rock Hill Principal Erica McCray Receives Milken Educator Award
Rock Hill, South Carolina – Principal Erica McCray of Riverwalk Academy was honored with the prestigious Milken Educator Award during a surprise assembly on December 9, 2025. The award includes a $25,000 cash prize and recognizes her exceptional contributions to education.
Details of the Award Presentation
The announcement took place at a schoolwide assembly celebrating Riverwalk Academy’s recent achievements. Dr. Joshua Barnett, CEO of the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching, and South Carolina Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver presented the award to McCray in front of an enthusiastic audience of students, educators, and community members.
About the Milken Educator Award
Established in 1987 by the Milken Family Foundation, the Milken Educator Award is a national program that honors outstanding educators with a $25,000 cash prize. The award aims to recognize and reward excellence in education, focusing on early- to mid-career professionals who demonstrate exceptional talent and potential for future contributions to the field. Since its inception, over 3,000 educators have been recognized nationwide.
McCray’s Educational Leadership
McCray’s journey at Riverwalk Academy has been transformative. She has been instrumental in shifting the school’s instructional model to prioritize project-based learning, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Collaborating with the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching, McCray has utilized their educator effectiveness model to support faculty development, leading to positive growth for educators and improved learning outcomes for students. Her efforts have also contributed to a high teacher retention rate and the school’s receipt of the Palmetto Silver Award in 2023-24.
Community Engagement
Beyond her leadership in education, McCray maintains strong relationships with parents and community stakeholders. She hosts parent nights, communicates regularly with families, and ensures that Riverwalk Academy’s achievements are celebrated within the community.
Educational Background
McCray earned a Bachelor of Arts in general communication disorders from Winthrop University in 2008, a Master of Education from the University of Phoenix in 2012, and a Master of Educational Leadership in school administration from Gardner-Webb University in 2017.
About the Milken Family Foundation
The Milken Family Foundation, established in 1982 by Lowell and Michael Milken, is a private foundation focused on supporting education and medical research. The Milken Educator Awards are among its initiatives, aiming to celebrate, elevate, and activate exceptional educators across the United States.
Recent Milken Educator Award Recipients
In addition to McCray, other educators have recently been honored with the Milken Educator Award. For instance, in November 2025, Shane Henderson, a teacher at Pittsboro Elementary School in North Carolina, received the award for his commitment to student success and inclusive learning environments.
Conclusion
Principal Erica McCray’s recognition with the Milken Educator Award underscores her dedication to educational excellence and her significant impact on the Riverwalk Academy community. Her leadership and innovative approaches continue to inspire both educators and students alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Milken Educator Award?
The Milken Educator Award is a national program established in 1987 by the Milken Family Foundation. It honors outstanding educators with a $25,000 cash prize, recognizing their exceptional contributions to education and their potential for future impact. Over 3,000 educators have been recognized nationwide.
Who is Principal Erica McCray?
Principal Erica McCray is the leader of Riverwalk Academy in Rock Hill, South Carolina. She has been recognized for her transformative leadership, including shifting the school’s instructional model to prioritize project-based learning and maintaining strong relationships with parents and community stakeholders.
What is the Milken Family Foundation?
The Milken Family Foundation is a private organization established in 1982 by Lowell and Michael Milken. It focuses on supporting education and medical research, with initiatives like the Milken Educator Awards aimed at celebrating and elevating exceptional educators across the United States.
Key Features of the Milken Educator Award
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Award Amount | $25,000 cash prize |
| Established | 1987 by the Milken Family Foundation |
| Purpose | To honor and reward outstanding K-12 educators for their quality of teaching, professional leadership, and engagement with families and the community |
| Eligibility | Early- to mid-career educators demonstrating exceptional talent and potential for future contributions to education |
| Number of Recipients | Over 3,000 educators nationwide |
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