During a recent meeting of the Florence 1 Schools board, the spotlight was on Mr. Titus Echols, a dedicated math teacher at Snead Middle School, who was honored as the \"hidden hero\" of the evening. Echols, a native of Timmonsville, South Carolina, has made significant contributions both in the classroom and within the community.

Echols, a 2018 graduate of Timmonsville High School, holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Winthrop University and a master's in teaching and learning from Francis Marion University. He is currently pursuing an advanced degree in educational specializations and a doctorate in educational leadership at South Carolina State University.

In his acceptance speech, Echols expressed his passion for teaching and the importance of building lasting relationships with his students. He emphasized the rewarding nature of witnessing students experience moments of understanding and growth. His initiative, the \"Mr. Echols Empowerment Network,\" was created in response to community feedback, aiming to provide a supportive environment for young people to thrive.

Echols highlighted the network's role in fostering connections among students and encouraging them to become engaged citizens. He also mentioned his involvement in coaching, where he teaches students not only sports skills but also life skills essential for success.

The board members praised Echols for his commitment to educational excellence and community service, noting his diverse teaching experience and research on the impact of distance learning on students from low socioeconomic backgrounds. At just 24 years old, Echols has emerged as a role model for both students and educators alike.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support for initiatives that uplift the community, showcasing the positive impact of dedicated educators like Echols in shaping the future of Florence 1 Schools and beyond.