Desiree Lewis was nominated by her former student, Tia Peeples.
For 14 years, Ms. Lewis has been fully committed and dedicated to being an educator. However, in no way has a location or title ever captured or contained her influence on her students or the world of education during the past 14 years of her career.
"Ms. Lewis has always gone above and beyond for her students, including me," said Peeples.
Ms. Lewis treats each of her students with great dignity and respect. She always creates a positive, child-oriented environment, and she focuses on building positive self-esteem through high standards and well-designed instruction.
"I met Ms. Lewis in 2003, when she served as a student teacher in my Pre-K classroom at Nix Elementary School," said Peeples. "Her dedication to my evolution as a student, both inside and outside of the classroom, drew me to her. This led me to ask her to become my Godmother at four years old. She helped me build my confidence and self-esteem by involving me in multiple pageants, as she was Miss Black South Carolina at the time. Participating in the pageants not only helped me build my confidence, but it taught me that I had to work hard for everything I wanted."
"Ms. Lewis has been a part of my life since grade school and still plays a vital role in my life," said Peeples. "I recently graduated from Valdosta State University with a Master's degree in Communication Disorders. Ms. Lewis changed my entire life because of the lessons, education, and advice she provided me starting at four years old. She was never only my teacher to me; she was more of a mother figure away from home who wanted to assist me in any way possible. She has always been a role model for me, and she's someone I have always aspired to be like. Ms. Lewis inspired me to attend a HBCU, pursue a degree in a field of assisting others, become a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and to be the best version of myself I could possibly be. I will never forget what she has instilled in me over the past 18 years and in the lives of her students."
Ms. Lewis creates a space for students to become better individuals. During her time at Mellichamp Elementary, she redesigned the Mr. and Miss Mellichamp Pageant, served as coordinator for the Mellichamp Talent Show, coordinated the first ever father/daughter and mother/son dance, served as an assistant to the Rivelon Elementary School Pep Squad, and assisted with the Girls Circle Program. She has also served in various leadership capacities within her school and district. She is Rivelon's Teacher of the Year and was also the first district Teacher of the Year for Orangeburg County Schools. In 2011, she was named as the District Teacher of the Year for Orangeburg Consolidated School District Five, Mellichamp Teacher of the Year, and Outstanding Educator of the Year by the Rotary Club of Orangeburg.
"Sometimes people appear in our lives, make their mark, and leave. Ms. Lewis, however, has grown with me as a student and as an individual," said Peeples. "She continues to inspire, encourage, educate, and support me. I could not be more thankful for having her in my life. She not only epitomizes what an educator should be, but embodies what it means to prepare students to become productive members of society while maximizing their potential to compete worldwide."
As my child soars to the next grade level, I am always faced with a level of heightened anxiety. I knew my son was in great hands when I heard so many faculty and staff members speaking so highly of Ms. Lewis during open house. I love how she challenges her students at the perfect pace. She gives her students enough time to retain what is being taught, but she also pushes them to their full potential. She is very involved with the parents as well. I wish all teachers were as passionate as Ms. Lewis. She is truly living out her calling as an educator!
I was so worried about my child staying focus and being caught up this year. Ms. Lewis help me distress a lot. Even though my child is online Ms.Lewis always ensure that she is learning and being put on track. The communication is great. I’m a very satisfied mother. Thank you Ms. Lewis.
Desiree,
You are absolutely a blessings to your students. I have watched you grow into a phenomenal educator. The professionalism that you exhibit is amazing. I know that teaching is a profession that often goes unnoticed but you are appreciated. Congratulations on your achievement. You are definitely a life changer.
My teacher calls me "Z". She loves me and I love her too. She is helping me learn new and fun things.
My teacher is helping me learn. I sit at her table for reading and writing. I make her laugh too.
This is my first year working with Ms. Lewis she teaches my daughter her professionalism and love for her students is amazing I appreciate her for encouraging words my daughter said that Ms Lewis was the best teacher she had if anybody deserves this award I would highly recommend Ms. Lewis
Ms. Lewis is such an amazing teacher. I am in her class and she helps me a lot. I am a better reader and scientist. Thank you Ms. Lewis and you are one of my lifechangers.
I have never met such an humble, selfless, poised, caring, and dedicated individual. I have personally witnessed Desiree, after a long day teaching, rearrange her plans to help a struggling child with homework; he was not her student. She always finds a way to make anyone she is in contact with feel inspired and she encourages them to strive for excellence.
Ms. Lewis is a GREAT life changer nominee, and very deserving of this award. I met Desiree nearly 15 years so, and she gave me great advice & knowledge on the proper way to educate & keep my HIGHLY ACTIVE 2 year old son focused & able to retain things he was being educated on!!! Believe it or not, I use the same methods today on my current 2year old son!! Ms. Lewis is very deserving of this award, she TRULY impacts lives for years to come.
Desiree is a great educator and friend. We had the pleasure of working together in the capacity of being District Teachers of the Year. It is and still continues to be a pleasure to work with her. She has compassion for her students and is dedicated not only to her school family but the community in so many ways. You can tell that education is her passion any chance you get to meet her. Desiree is truly a Lifechanger!
You are always leading the way! Congratulations Desiree! God blessed us with you, and we are so thankful for the blessings that he bestowed upon us. We are so proud of you and wish you all of God's blessings in this journey of life. The best is yet to come!
Love Always,
Momma and Daddy
I have known Ms. Lewis all of her life but I know her best as my younger sister Desiree. As a child from humble beginnings she always had a passion for learning. For her knowledge was a key tool for success. Education was her foundation for greater things. It is no wonderful she is an inspiration to so many young people whose lives she has a hand in shaping.
Ms. Lewis is my former student and I am proud to know this young lady. She has our district teacher of the year, not once but twice. She is a stellar teacher and deserves to be called Life changer of the year.
As a new teacher, having Ms. Lewis as my mentor has been an amazing experience. I feel confident in performing my duties as a teacher because of Ms. Lewis. I can go to her with any questions or concerns. She has definitely been someone I can count on. I am lucky to have her.
I love Miss Lewis' class and she is the best teacher!
DESIREE LEWIS...
Congratulations Desiree. Continue to Soar as you Mold, Inspire, Build, and Encourage our Children for the Future!
I like coming to her classroom.
She tries to help me understand my math.
She helps me learn new stuff.
I’ve been searching for her for months and to hear she’s still teaching is amazing she was my first grade teacher at mellichamp I loved her
She is good with how she helps me. I like her hair too.
I like that you are very kind and that you help people when they raise their hand.
I like what I am going to learn in your class.
Miss Desiree Lewis is an Awesome teacher, loving mother, mentor, and she's also my friend!! She goes above and beyond to make sure her students have what they need in education so they can be the best young people that she knows them to be!! She has taught both of my children and they loved her as a teacher then and they still love her now!! She still calls and checks on them periodically, this is an example of a loving teacher!! We Love you Miss Lewis ?
It is indeed a honor to nominee such an awesome educator. I have watched this young lady matriculate over the years. She is definite determine to achieve her goals in life. She has represented our district well this year as our district teacher of the year. Again, without hesitation, I highly recommend her for nomination to this prestigious award as a life changer.
Desiree is one of my daughter I didn't have. Desiree is definitely a Life Changer in me and my son life. When my son was attending son and I didn't understand my son' lesson I would pick up the phone and call Desiree and she came to my rescue. Desiree has been a caring, and loving individual who doesn't mind going the extra mile to help children learn. Desiree is very passionate in what she does, teaching our little jewels. Life changes come in all shapes and sizes, but with Desiree she just simply adjust with the changes. Desiree is a resilient human being that will survive the curveballs life throws, but actually thrive despite them! Desiree love everybody, she is an inspiration. I am very thankful to have Desiree to be a part of me and my family life. I love the fact that Desiree is a person you can always count on, when you need her she is always available, she does not know the word "NO". SIMPLY PUT DESIREE IS A LIFE CHANGER!!!
I am Mrs. Tamika K. Fordham! I met desire in college, when she was seeking a degree in early childhood development. I’ve observed her learning educational theories, use those best practices, and witnessed her becoming teacher of the year twice. Desire has a big heart for children and enjoys teaching them. She is a life changer, because she change lives everyday by teaching them to be good little human beings and making them smarter day by day.
Greatness must run in this family.
My aunt Desiree is the best teacher. She loves to sing and read to me. I love her!
My Auntie Desiree is a nice teacher. She helps me with my reading and and writing. She makes learning fun!
My aunt Desiree is the best teacher. She helps me with my work when I don't understand it. She pushes me to do my best!
Ms. Lewis is a life changer and dream developer. She makes a difference in the lives of students and our profession. I first met Ms. Lewis when she was named the Orangeburg 5 District Teacher of the Year a few years ago and recently was so happy to see her recognized once more as the District Teacher of the Year for the newly consolidated district in Orangeburg. She is a champion for students and a teacher leader in the education profession. I'm proud to see her recognized as a life changer because she embodies all of the traits of someone who makes a difference!
Ms. Lewis is an excellent teacher, mentor, and motivator! From the time I met her when we were in the 9th grade until the present, she has always expressed a true desire to be an educator. This role is her calling! Her love, compassion, and dedication to her students are sincere. I can attest that she is just as nurturing and caring towards her family and friends as she is towards her students. My prayer is God continues to bless her and allow her to inspire more lives in the years to come!
It is a pleasure to be on the same "Rivelon Team" with Ms. Lewis! She portrays the life changing character traits that are essential to be a successful educator. Ms. Lewis faced the challenges of teaching during a pandemic school year with courage & endurance as she prepared her students for the next grade level. I am proud of you & your continued growth in the educational arena!
Ms. Lewis is a great teacher! I love her!
Ms. Lewis is an excellent educator! She took me under her wing my very first year of teaching seven years ago. She had patience of taking it step by step in showing me the ropes of becoming an effective teacher. I owe Ms. Lewis my “Teacher of the Year” because it wouldn’t been possible without her leadership. I strive each day to be more and more like her as an educator! She will go down in history as one of the best educators that Orangeburg has to offer! #sherocks
Ms.Lewis is the best teacher ever.I love learning new things. My favorite thing was our pajama party and dressing up for the first lady vice president. I hope that my new teacher is like Ms.Lewis. I love you Ms.Lewis.
I met Ms. Lewis spring semester of 2015-2016 school year at Mellichamp. I had the pleasure of doing my teaching teaching under her. I enjoyed my time with her and learned a lot from her. She is an excellent teacher. She has a very sweet spirit. She’s also a great mother and friend.
Ms. Lewis is an excellent teacher and she is very special to my daughter. I really appreciate her taking her time doing the pandemic to teach Laangel and making sure all her kids did their work daily.
Ms. Lewis is a fantastic educator, leader and inspires her students to reach for the stars. She has won countless accolades over her 20+ year teaching career, and is an exceptional talent!
When children come into contact with Desiree it's as if they can sense that she is a teacher and they are immediately drawn to her. Desiree displays the patience and understanding that anyone learning something new desires. Desiree is an amazing teacher she an amazing example of what dedication to your learners looks like.
Ms. Lewis is an excellent teacher. During the pandemic I decided to enroll my kids in the virtual learning option for the year. Ms. Lewis was an excellent teacher and communicated with me every step of the way to ensure that my twins were on track to being excellent scholars. She is passionate, kind and exhibits all qualities needed to be a an excellent teacher and leader.
I really enjoy being in Ms. Lewis class. I wish she could teach me in each grade to high school. I think Ms. Lewis is the best teacher ever!
Ms. Lewis is an awesome teacher. Even in a virtual setting Ms. Lewis made sure we were successful. Ms. Lewis did really cool experiments that I loved in science. She is an awesome teacher!!
Ms. Desiree Lewis is not just an amazing teacher, she’s an amazing mother, and she’s my amazing friend. Her dedication to her students is unmatched. Ms. Lewis is a godsend to our community, and we owe her great gratitude for her works, then and now. Respectfully.
Ms.Lewis is an amazing teacher . She did an awesome job teaching and making the process easy for the kids during the pandemic. She is definitely a teacher who cares and is passionate about her work. I thank you Ms.Lewis and so does Kayden for everything you have done this school term.
I liked Ms.Lewis . She was a great teacher and I liked the good work She give me.
Thank u far been here far us in been understanding u are a good teacher in I wish u well
I have had the pleasure of knowing Ms.Desiree Lewis for more than 20+ years as my sister & friend, and as an exceptional educator. She consistently embodies leadership, commitment, and the ability to inspire others in her role as a classroom teacher and beyond. Desiree is self-motivated and is always eager to achieve above and beyond expectations when it comes to working with her students and colleagues.
Desiree has various qualities that make her an exceptional leader. Some areas of strengths include: being a strategic thinker, a decision maker, and a great communicator both written and oral. Additionally, Ms. Lewis possesses keen instincts and offers strategies to effect change and improvement. Among her leadership capabilities, she loves to foster motivational and mentoring relationships with her colleagues, students, and subordinates.
Ms. Lewis's impeccable abilities truly makes her worthy of a prestigious award such as this. She is truly a passionate advocate for all educators and student learning. I am proud to have her support my work both personally and professionally.
It would be an honor to see this award bestowed upon a woman such as herself who is committed to transforming the lives of students and colleagues.
Ms. Lewis is an awesome educator who has grown in this profession tremendously. She's always a supportive mentor and she motivates others to do their best. Ms. Lewis is also an educator who is humble enough to know that to be a great teacher you must be a life long learner. She's always continuing her education and making strides to be the best she can be. Her smile is radiant and her personality matches is. Ms. Lewis will always be a "Life changer in the eyes of her students, co workers, friends, and family.
Desiree is a passionate, hard working educator who truly loves what she does and always has the best interest of her students in mind. She has always strived for and achieved excellence in whatever she does and her role as an educator is no different. She is a positive influence and her hard work dedication continue to impact those around her. She is a true blessing and I am proud to be her friend. I look forward to watching her continued growth and her dedication to positively impact the education field.
Desiree is a sister, friend and outstanding woman. We met through our fathers, as they were employed together and became best of friends. It was through their friendship that Desiree and I became kindred spirits. I noticed her dedication to family, to her career and her love for people. Desiree is driven and on a mission of service. In doing so her joy, love and beauty radiates and is contagious.Thus "Changing Lives" along the way. My life has been forever changed because I have a another sister, from another daddy, who supports and motivates me. Desiree is simply awesome!
Before my son joined me at Mellichamp, I had already handpicked Ms. Lewis to be my son's teache. Fortunately, she taught him in 1st and 2nd grade. We were lucky!. Desiree was an excellent teacher. She was very organized and well-articulated. She really helped my son become a good writer. There wasn't a day that came where he didn't want to come to school. After he matriculated from Mellichamp, he asked me for an entire year if he could go back there! Keep doing what you're doing Ms. Lewis, changing one life at a time!
This is awesome, Desiree! Thank you for all that you've done for young people during your entire career! The world is a better place because of you. Congratulations on all of your successes!
This is awesome, Desiree! Thank you for all that you've done for young people during your entire career! The world is a better place because of you. Congratulations on all of your successes!
Desiree is a phenomenal educator. Her passion for education is highly evident. Not only is she dedicated to her students, but she is dedicated to supporting teachers as leaders. We were truly blessed to have her serve as our district teacher of the year. Congratulations on this nomination! What a wonderful testimony!
Ms. Lewis is one of the Greats persons I’ve ever worked with , not only as a Teacher , but as a Person, who cared for her Students and Everyone she meets.Ms. Lewis is the kind of young lady you’ll want for a Daughter,Friend , Teacher or Coworker .
Ms. Lewis is an awesome teacher and colleague. She is a person the goes way and beyond for her students and colleagues. It is a pleasure working with her at Rivelon. She does not mind helping her teammates and sharing her knowledge to help all students. Ms. Lewis, Thank you for ALL you do!
Congratulations Desiree on this amazing nomination. I’m so proud of all of your accomplishments as an educator. Continue making a difference in your student’s lives.
Mrs. Lewis is the best teacher I have ever had! You deserve nothing but the best in this world. Thank you for being the kind hearted person that you are.
My older sister and I had the privilege of having Ms. Lewis as a first grade teacher years ago. My sister is now on the verge of graduating high school and i’m going to be entering my junior year of high school. These words may be simple and overused but I, from the bottom of my heart, don’t think I would be two years away from graduating high school with an Associates degree in science if it weren’t for this incredible woman. When school makes me feel like giving up, I always imagine myself with a cap and gown, standing on her doorstep, waiting for her to open the door and see that I made it. Not only was she our teacher, she became family who took us in as her nieces. Ms. Lewis continues to guide me on things like college and careers since my parents are unable to do that because they didn’t have the opportunities that I do today. I will never forget the great effort she put into each of her students education. I will forever be extremely grateful that my sisters and I have this amazing person with the purest heart in our lives who is always a phone call and a short drive away. I am honestly honored to say that she was once my teacher and I was once her student.
I remembering meeting Ms. Lewis during her first year as a teacher. She exemplified passion, positivity, and professionalism then, and the same holds true now. Our paths crossed again when she and I worked together at Mellichamp Elementary School in Orangeburg, SC. Her classroom environment was a place of creativity, innovation, and respect. She has always been a natural teacher leader who truly cares about the students and families she serves. She is a model educator who is so deserving of this prestigious award.
Ms. Lewis is an amazing Teacher and co worker. She loves to teach and see her children grow in education. She treats her friends and co workers with much love and respect, I am proud to to work with Ms. Lewis
Ms. Lewis is a very concern and caring young lady who has a big heart for others; especially for young children. She is passionate about teaching is great at teaching. She is creative and outgoing. When I grow up, I would love to be as creative as she is. Hats off to a great educator, Ms. Desiree Lewis
Ms. Lewis is a gifted and talented educator. She is a teacher's teacher and a great advocate for learning. Her infectious and exuberant personality together with her love for learning have made her a exceptional teacher.
Ms. Lewis ,
Thank you for being the best cooperating teacher during my student teaching experience at Claflin University. Everything you have taught me, I have taken to my own classroom. I love how caring and passionate you are. You are a phenomenal educator! I am so proud to have you as a mentor ! <3
Congratulations Ms. Lewis I hope you do your best to win!
Love,
Imani
Desiree is a great friend I’ve known for years and an amazing educator!!! She is dedicated to her craft and exemplifies excellence as a teacher, mother, and person overall.
Congratulations Desiree on this awesome nomination!!
Desiree is a wonderful educator and colleague. She goes above despite the odds to assure her grade level team and other colleagues have what they need to provide challenging and quality educational experiences for students. We are proud of her accomplishments!!
Ms. Lewis is exceptional in all aspects! She exceeds all preliminary boundaries and never ceases to go above and beyond for her students! She embodies all that the Life Changer of the Year Award stands for!
Desiree is an amazing educator! She is great with her students, but she is also great with her colleagues. She doesn't mind sharing her wealth of knowledge so that everyone around her grows.
This is why we do what we do. And although it may seem hard sometimes we don't give up. We continue to give our students what they deserve every day in our classrooms! ???? ????????
Mrs.Lewis is a outstanding person and I’m not just saying this to say it but I have experience it. Not only is she my godmother,former teacher, Pageant coach, and family. But she is an excellent mentor who makes sure you are 100% good at all times and pushes you to your full potential. As a teacher Mrs.Lewis has done for her students that many teachers wouldn’t and that’s taking the time out for her students. She learns her students strengths and weaknesses to help them achieve goals they would have never expect. She makes sure to leave no student behind and if someone doesn’t get something she finds fun ways to help so when you leave her class that day everything you learn is still there. I’ve seen her work so hard over the years installing a lot of my peers with the education and classroom experience we need I solute to her and appreciate everything she has taught me all your hard work will payoff. Continue to be the best educator out there and always keep your head up .
Mommy you are the best teacher in the world!
Ms.Lewis is very dedicated and excellent teacher. Very caring and supportive of her students ! It is a pleasure knowing and working with her ! She is the epitome of a dedicated teacher and mother .
It is with great pleasure that God allowed me to cross paths with Ms. Desiree Lewis. In 2017, I was fortunate to have her as my cooperating teacher to complete my student teaching. It was her patience, drive and compassion for ALL students that motivated me to be just like her. It is because of Desiree that I learned how to be the educator that I am.
When I walked into her classroom I will admit that I lacked confidence, and I was unsure if I was cut out to really be a teacher. Desiree, allowed me to express myself and make her classroom my own. She didn’t criticize, or belittle me, only helped and gave me constructive criticism.
I will forever be grateful to her for pushing and motivating me. I often think back and reference so much information that she has taught me. It is also because of her that as a 3rd year teacher I was able to receive my own Student Teacher. I remembered how Desiree made me feel. I remember how scared I was, and much she pushed me. In 2017, I didn’t just meet a teacher who needed to sign off on papers for me to complete a class , but I met a lifelong friend who has been by my side every since!
Desiree is not only my friend, but she is my sorority sister, church buddy, praying partner, my gal pal, and one of my biggest cheer leaders! She is the epitome of a strong phenomenal educated woman. She represents beauty and brains effortlessly. Desiree is an excellent educator and she will support others anytime. She takes pride in her job and extended duties. Des, you deserve all of this and more! Please continue walking in style, grace, and class! Please stay blessed sister! Much love!
Mrs. Lewis is a phenomenal instructional leader in her classroom. She is a true example of a professional educator. She always puts the social and emotional needs of her students first so that she can enhance teaching and learning on a daily basis. She is an asset to any learning environment and an educator who leads by example. When you think of a highly qualified teacher you envision her classroom learning environment. She deserves this award and so many more for being a fabulous educator.
Oh my goodness. I am beyond proud of you!! Your excellence is why we selected you to represent your state in the Miss Black USA pageant. Your excellence continues and it is now impacting our children!!! What a beautiful purpose to watch being manifested. Keep shining bright and changing the world one child at a time.
An amazing write up for a beautiful person inside and out. Desiree’s dedication and passion as an educator is something to be admired. So proud of all her accomplishments. She’s definitely a life changer.
Desiree Lewis is an awesome teacher, person, sister, daughter, mother, and friend. I’ve done her hair numerous times and she is always the same great, loving, caring, determined, intelligent, and phenomenal woman. She encourage so many and lead with greatness. She is someone you can count on, her family is wonderful also. She represents her family well. I pray that she continues the good work with Gods grace and favor.
I had the opportunity to meet Desiree while she was matriculating in grade school. I observed her to be a student who worked really hard and strive to be the very best she could be. She had thrive and ambition that I wish each student would have. Ms. Desiree Lewis later became my “Queen.” Her charisma and lady like characteristics allowed her maneuver through college with ease. Her leadership skills afforded her to mentor several ladies in the community. I always believed that I wanted to have daughters just like Desiree who walked with confidence and who spoke with great diction. I was so excited when my Queen became a classroom teacher. She performed in the classroom in many ways that I knew she would. She ensured that her students exhibited good character traits. She taught them all the necessary skills to be successful in their present grade level and thereafter. My Queen has really made me proud!
This is so heartwarming and such a beautiful tribute to such an outstanding educator and such a beautiful individual inside and out. Congratulations Ms. Lewis-You Rock!!!
Your are an awesome educator!!!
I’m so proud of you! This nomination is most definitely deserved. Continue to shine your light! Love you :) -Mikey !
Ms. Lewis is an awesome 2nd grade teacher and educator here at Rivelon Elementary. She is a shining exemplary of what a teacher should be! A leader of her peers and an exceptional human being. I am glad she is a part of my faculty& staff.
Congratulations on this major accomplishment!
You've always been such an inspiration to those around you and instrumental in the lives you come in contact with. I wish you nothing but the best
Ms. Lewis is a phenomenal educator and mentor. She always goes the extra mile to ensure that her students are successful in their academic endeavors.
I had the privilege to complete my field experience under her leadership while attending Claflin University. This experience has strengthen my love for the field of education and working with youth. Several years later and Ms. Lewis is still a key figure to my success journey in the field.
Desiree, has been a great friend since high school. She is has always wanted to be a teacher and made that dream come true. Desiree is a dedicated person and whatever sets her mind to she will accomplish. Desiree loves children and has always felt it her calling to reach as many as possible.
Congratulations Desiree! I'm not surprised at all!! You've been an excellent educator and I know it will continue! I pray you win!
Great article! Ms. Lewis is passionate about leading young people to great success! I agree 100% with this article and am so glad you shared the positive impact she has had in your life! Ms Lewis continue doing the work God has called you to do in leading our young people to greatness!
Amazing account of an amazing person. I’ve know Desiree Lewis more then half my life. She has always been an exceptional person. It brings me great joy to read such amazing words and to review her ever-expanding list of accomplishments. Bravo! Well-deserved.
