Sumter Adult Education instructor receives national GED Educator of the Year Award

Sumter Adult Education is proud to announce that Stanley E. Hayes Jr., lead teacher and 2026-27 Sumter Adult Education Teacher of the Year, has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious 2026 GED Educator of the Year Award, presented by GED Testing Service in recognition of outstanding contributions to adult education and student success.

The GED Educator of the Year Award recognizes exceptional educators who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to helping adult learners achieve their educational goals and improve their lives through education. As one of the nation's highest honors in adult education, the award celebrates educators whose dedication, innovation and leadership have made a significant impact on student achievement.

As lead teacher at Sumter Adult Education, Hayes provides instructional leadership while maintaining a steadfast commitment to the success of adult learners. His passion for education, innovative teaching practices and ability to motivate students have helped countless individuals earn their GED credentials, pursue postsecondary education and secure meaningful employment opportunities. His impact on both students and colleagues recently earned him the distinction of being named Sumter Adult Education's 2026-27 Teacher of the Year.

Hayes will be formally recognized during the GED Annual Conference Awards Luncheon in Atlanta, Georgia, on July 30. The award includes national recognition, conference participation and resources designed to further support student achievement.

"We are incredibly proud of Mr. Hayes and this well-deserved national recognition," said Vanessa Smith-Canty, director of Sumter Adult Education. "As our lead teacher and Teacher of the Year, he exemplifies excellence in adult education. His unwavering dedication, instructional expertise and commitment to student success have transformed lives and strengthened our program. This honor reflects the extraordinary impact he has on our students, our staff and the Sumter community."

Sumter Adult Education remains committed to its mission of providing quality lifelong learning opportunities to adults throughout Sumter County. Mr. Hayes' national recognition serves as a testament to the program's dedication to educational excellence and its commitment to opening doors of opportunity for adult learners.

For more information about Sumter Adult Education, contact Vanessa Smith-Canty, director of Sumter Adult Education, at (803) 774-9271. The address is 905 N. Main St., Sumter.

Sumter Adult Education provides quality lifelong learning opportunities to adults throughout Sumter County through GED preparation, High School Diploma completion, English language instruction, workforce readiness training and career development services. The program's theme, "Opening Doors of Opportunities for the Sumter Community," reflects its commitment to empowering adult learners to achieve their educational, career and personal goals.