(Columbia, SC) — Richland School District Two is excited to celebrate that Mandey Collins, a behavior support professional at Round Top Elementary School, has been named a recipient of a 2026 Palmetto State Teachers Association (PSTA) Classroom Grant.
Now in its fifth year, the PSTA Classroom Grant initiative is part of the organization’s Reinvesting in Our Members Program, which is awarded annually to encourage and support PSTA members as they serve students across South Carolina.
Ms. Collins will utilize the grant funding to purchase sensory and calming materials for her students. These high-quality resources will serve Round Top Elementary students for multiple years, assisting staff in creating a comfortable, safe environment where students can effectively reset and return to their least restrictive learning environments.
“My behavioral support room’s entire focus is on student behavior and academic success,” said Collins.
She is one of 21 grant recipients statewide. This exciting news was delivered in person when PSTA Director of Teacher Leadership Craig King surprised Ms. Collins at Round Top Elementary earlier this month to officially announce her selection as a grant winner.
PSTA is the largest professional education association for teachers in South Carolina. The organization provides professional benefits to support its members throughout their careers in education. More information can be found at www.palmettoteachers.org.
Link to Video: https://youtu.be/vlNjVH4nchE
Photo, From Left: Round Top Elementary School Principal Alison Whisenant; Mandey Collins, grant recipient; and Craig King, PSTA Director of Teacher Leadership.
