Salters Native Wins Prestigious Educator Award

Erica McCray, principal of Riverwalk Academy, honored with $25,000 Milken Educator Award.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Erica McCray, a native of Salters, South Carolina, has been named a recipient of the prestigious Milken Educator Award. McCray, the principal of Riverwalk Academy in Rock Hill, was recognized for her transformative leadership, impact on student achievement, and commitment to faculty development.

Why it matters

The Milken Educator Award is one of the most prestigious honors in the field of education, recognizing exceptional teachers and principals who are driving student success and innovation in their schools. McCray's award highlights the importance of strong school leadership and the positive impact that can have on a community.

The details

As principal of Riverwalk Academy, McCray has played a key role in the school's growth, rising from a classroom teacher to literacy coach and now principal. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was instrumental in shifting the school's instructional approach to emphasize project-based learning, empowering students to take ownership of their education. McCray has also implemented an educator effectiveness model to strengthen teaching practices and drive measurable student growth.

  • Erica McCray was named a Milken Educator Award recipient in February 2026.

The players

Erica McCray

The principal of Riverwalk Academy in Rock Hill, South Carolina, and a native of Salters, South Carolina. She was recognized with the prestigious Milken Educator Award for her transformative leadership and impact on student achievement.

Riverwalk Academy

A K-5 school in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where Erica McCray serves as principal.

National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET)

A nonprofit organization that partners with schools to implement an educator effectiveness model and drive student growth.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

McCray and Riverwalk Academy will continue to focus on implementing innovative instructional approaches and strengthening teaching practices to drive student achievement.

The takeaway

Erica McCray's Milken Educator Award highlights the transformative impact that strong school leadership can have on a community. Her commitment to empowering students, supporting teachers, and driving academic progress serves as an inspiring example for educators across South Carolina.