Jackson Creek Elementary Teacher Named SC Financial Literacy Educator of the Month

South Carolina Treasurer Curtis Loftis has officially named Jackson Creek Elementary's Anya Bryant as the South Carolina Financial Literacy Master Teacher Program’s Educator of the Month for September.

Now in her sixth year of teaching early childhood education in Richland School District Two, Bryant is being celebrated for successfully translating foundational financial concepts for her youngest learners.

“Teaching financial literacy helps people practice better money management, avoid common financial hazards, and make long-term goals and plans so they can lay the groundwork for a more successful and self-sufficient future,” Bryant said. “By bringing financial literacy to elementary schools, we can help kids understand basic money concepts at a younger age. This gives them the knowledge and experience they need to manage savings, credit, and other financial matters before they become adults.”

Guided by her family’s core belief that "knowledge is power," Bryant is committed to sharing her expanding expertise with fellow educators across the state. She brings a wealth of experience to her classroom, holding a bachelor’s degree from Francis Marion University and a master’s in teaching ESOL from the University of South Carolina. Her extensive background also features specialized training in Orton-Gillingham and Open Court curriculum planning, along with active community tutoring involvement through Summer SOAR and the Be Great Academy.

"The time and energy Ms. Bryant invests in her classroom serves as a valuable benefit to her young students," remarked State Treasurer Loftis. “Teaching them to put needs ahead of wants is an essential, lifelong lesson, and I deeply appreciate her efforts.”

Sponsored by Future Scholar, South Carolina’s 529 College Savings Plan, and in partnership with SC Economics, the Master Teacher Program provides specialized training, curriculum resources, and incentives to K-12 educators. Participating teachers then lead professional development workshops in their own districts, helping to seamlessly incorporate personal finance education into classrooms statewide.