South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Ladybug Release Award, recognizing five exceptional educators from across the state who embody the spirit of former SCETV leader, Bobbi Kennedy, through their daily work with students.
The 2026 recipients are:
- Rebecca Luckie – Stiles Point Elementary School, Charleston County School District
- Terrance Davis – Lowcountry Leadership Charter School, Charter Institute at Erskine
- Katie Craig – Graniteville Elementary, Aiken County Public School District
- Hayley Long – Langston Charter Middle School, Charter Institute at Erskine
- Jessica Dorn – Cayce Elementary, Lexington County School District Two
The Ladybug Release Award honors South Carolina preK–12 educators who demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering meaningful classroom experiences, building relationships and creating engaging, student-centered learning environments. Educators are nominated by their principals for the impact they are already making in their schools and classrooms, rather than through a traditional application process.
Each recipient will receive a $500 award and will be offered two hours of classroom assistance provided by SCETV’s Education team. This support may include a classroom takeover or relief from afternoon duties and must be redeemed by the end of the 2025–26 school year.
The Ladybug Release Award reflects the legacy of Bobbi Kennedy, whose nearly five decades of service at SCETV helped shape the network’s education initiatives and outreach across South Carolina. Under her leadership, SCETV’s Education Department became a trusted resource for educators and students in public, private and home school settings statewide. Her work emphasized the importance of access to high-quality educational content, relationship-building and meeting the needs of communities across the state. That legacy continues through the work of SCETV’s education initiatives today and into the future.
In recognition of her lasting contributions, the ETV Endowment established the Bobbi Kennedy Scholarship Fund to support educators with professional development opportunities, educational materials and content development resources to enhance their ability to serve students throughout South Carolina.
Recipients of the 2026 Ladybug Release Award were selected by a committee that included individuals who knew Bobbi Kennedy and thoughtfully reflected on the intent and spirit of the award. Nominees were evaluated based on their commitment to building classroom community and belonging, use of creative and engaging instructional practices, focus on student-centered learning, and meaningful impact on students both academically and personally.
For more information about SCETV’s 2026 Ladybug Release Award, visit the SCETV website.
QUOTES
“South Carolina’s educators play a critical role in shaping the future of our communities, and the Ladybug Release Award recognizes those who go above and beyond to create meaningful, student-centered learning experiences. These recipients reflect the heart of Bobbi Kennedy’s legacy through their dedication, creativity and lasting impact on students across our state.” –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell
“The Ladybug Release Award is a meaningful way to recognize the everyday impact teachers have in their classrooms. By lifting up educators who are already making a difference, this award reinforces the importance of supporting teachers and the vital role they play in student success.” –SCETV Assistant General Manager/Deputy Director Dr. Stephanie Cook
“This award celebrates educators who know that strong relationships and engaging instruction are at the heart of student success. In classrooms where students feel supported, inspired and empowered, their impact is undeniable. The Ladybug Release Award honors these moments and the people behind them with the gift of time, a small gesture that reflects a deep appreciation for their lasting influence.” –SCETV Chief Learning Officer Dr. Salandra Bowman
“Bobbi Kennedy believed in the power of educators to transform lives, and the Ladybug Release Award reflects that same spirit of encouragement, compassion and dedication. Through the Bobbi Kennedy Scholarship Fund, the ETV Endowment is honored to support teachers who are creating meaningful connections with students and strengthening classrooms across South Carolina every day.” -ETV Endowment of South Carolina President and CEO Coby Latham
“Bobbi Kennedy's enduring commitment to lifelong learning continues through this initiative. It is especially meaningful to see SCETV fostering the Bobbi Kennedy Scholarship and the values it represents.” –Former SCETV President and CEO Linda O'Bryan
FAST FACTS
- SCETV announces the recipients of the 2026 Ladybug Release Award.
- Each recipient receives a $500 award and two hours of classroom support from SCETV’s Education team.
- Educators are nominated by their school principals based on their existing impact in the classroom.
- The award honors the legacy of longtime SCETV education leader Bobbi Kennedy and her commitment to students and teachers across South Carolina.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Kitchen Curious with Vivian Howard, Reel South and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.
Media Contact
Landon Masters
media@scetv.org
(803) 737-3337
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio announces 2026 Ladybug Release Award recipients (PDF)
