A Bay Creek Middle School teacher is being recognized for her dedication to social studies and her drive to help students succeed. Hope Culpepper is the recipient of the 2024 Gwen Hutcheson Outstanding Social Studies Educator Award. The award, presented by the Georgia Council for the Social Studies (GCSS), recognizes an educator who has excelled in serving their students and uses unique instructional approaches to foster the development of their learning community. The Gwinnett County Board of Education will honor Culpepper for this achievement during its regularly scheduled meeting on December 19.

     Culpepper, who has a passion for social studies, is humbled by the award. She shares, “I believe that social studies is the most important subject taught in schools. Not only does it encompass reading, writing, critical thinking, and problem-solving, but it prepares students to be active citizens in our communities,” says Culpepper. “I am a lifelong learner, continually looking for new and high-impact strategies to engage my students and foster long-lasting learning. I believe it is crucial to connect real-world events to what we are studying in school and why it is so important to understand how to engage in civic action.”

     GCSS was founded to promote excellence in social studies education, aiming to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to make informed decisions and actively participate in a globally connected society. As an honoree, Culpeper will receive a $250 cash reward, a one-year membership to the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS), and will be recognized at the Fall GCSS Conference.

     “We in the Social Studies Office are proud to have dedicated educators like Mrs. Hope Culpepper leading our students in GCPS and inspiring a passion for social studies,” says 6-12 Director of Social Studies Shirelle Tubbs. “Her commitment to fostering democratic values and citizenship and her impactful contributions to professional learning make her deserving of this award.”