ESE Student Support
Dr. Savana Keese (Teacher of The Year 2024-2025)
A little bit about yourself - where are you from?
Im from Seneca, SC and moved to rock hill in 2019 then to Lancaster in 2021. I’ve been teaching for going 9 years now. I enjoy comedy shows, trying new restaurants, attending concerts, building Legos, and traveling.
A little bit about yourself--where are you from? What do you like to do?
I grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina. I graduated from Clemson University and received my Masters from Winthrop University. I love to spend time with my family. I love to run and work out. I love going to the beach.
How do you help students become leaders in their own learning?
Helping students become leaders in their own learning starts with teaching them to understand themselves as learners. In my 6th grade special education classroom, I use individualized strategies like student-led goal setting, reflection journals, and visual progress tracking to help students take ownership of their learning. We talk regularly about their strengths, challenges, and the strategies that work best for them. I encourage self-advocacy by helping students learn how to ask for help and use their accommodations. My goal is to help every student believe that they can learn, and that their voice matters in their education.
A little bit about yourself--where are you from? What do you like to do?
I am from Bulacan, Philippines. I just love hanging out with my wife or playing video games.