Mission and Description

With approximately 47 million Hispanics, the U.S. is now the 2nd largest most-populated country of Hispanics in the world: second only to Mexico (110 million). South Carolina has seen its own Hispanic population triple in the past decade, and in August 2005 a University of South Carolina study showed Hispanics in S.C. with an approximate annual purchasing potential of more than $2 billion, 80% of which is spent within the State. From 2000-2007, S.C. had the second largest growth rate of Hispanics in the U.S. (45.5%), and the first in the year 2007, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This phenomenon has greatly impacted state businesses, the health care and legal systems, and the society in general. Consequently, Spanish language instruction in South Carolina's schools has become an urgent priority, and to promote and recognize outstanding teaching of the Hispanic language and culture in the Palmetto State's public and private K-12 schools, The Citadel's Tau Iota Chapter of Sigma Delta Pi, the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society presents its annual South Carolina Spanish Teacher of the Year Award, the only recognition exclusively for exceptional Spanish teachers in the State.

Each summer, the contest's Board will select three finalists who will be notified in August and invited to an awards ceremony to be held in November in Charleston. The South Carolina Spanish Teacher of the Year will be announced at this event. The Tau Iota Chapter of Sigma Delta Pi will provide each finalist with an award plaque; other sponsors may provide cash, services and/or merchandise as appropriate for the distinctions.

Dr. Mark P. Del Mastro
Founding Director,
Sigma Delta Pi's South Carolina Spanish Teacher of the Year