Spotlight: Erica McCray (SC '25)

As elementary principal at Riverwalk Academy in Rock Hill, South Carolina, Erica McCray (SC ’25) works alongside her faculty to create a positive, nurturing environment for all. Centered on project-based learning, Riverwalk encourages students to take ownership of their education—developing critical skills beyond academics, such as collaboration, communication, problem-solving and teamwork. The result has been notable achievement growth, strong relationships, and high teacher retention. McCray received her Milken Educator Award on December 9, 2025.

MFF: How have students responded since your Milken Educator Award surprise?

The students have been incredibly excited. Before the Award, I always felt I had a strong connection with the students in our building, from hugs in the hallway to happy waves every morning. Since the Award, it feels like I have become a bit of a celebrity to them. They are constantly asking questions, congratulating me, and sharing how proud they are. What has meant the most is seeing their excitement and knowing they feel connected to the recognition our school received through this Award.

MFF: Who are your role models as an educator?

I have had several educators throughout my life whom I admired and connected with as a student. However, it was not until I became an educator myself that I truly understood and appreciated the impact they had on me. Looking back, I admire the relationships they built, the way they inspired students, and the dedication they brought to their work every day. Those educators continue to influence the way I lead and support others.

MFF: Is there an experience you had in the classroom as a student that shaped your practices or motivation to become an educator?

As a student, I was fortunate to have teachers who made me feel seen, valued, and capable of succeeding. They created environments where learning was engaging and relationships mattered. Those experiences taught me the importance of building strong connections with students and helping them believe in themselves. Today, I strive to create that same feeling for every student who walks through our doors.

MFF: Tell us about your first year of teaching. What memories stand out? Who or what helped you through it?

My passion for teaching really grew while I was a pre-K teacher, but my first year in a public school environment was spent in a first grade classroom. I was fortunate to be part of a team of six teachers who provided incredible support. What stands out most are the collaborative planning meetings and PLCs where we analyzed assessments, reviewed student work, and made instructional decisions together. Those opportunities to collaborate helped me grow tremendously as an educator and reinforced the importance of teamwork in improving student outcomes.

MFF: What do you hope students remember from their time with you?

I hope students remember that they were cared for, supported, and believed in. While academics are important, I want them to know they had someone who encouraged them to take risks, work hard, and be their best selves. If students leave knowing they are capable of achieving great things and that they always have someone cheering them on, then I’ve made the impact I hoped for.

MFF: How does your joyful spirit influence the way you lead, support teachers and inspire students each day?

I believe positivity is contagious. I try to bring energy, enthusiasm, and encouragement into every interaction with students and staff. Whether I’m celebrating successes, supporting someone through a challenge, or simply greeting students in the hallway, I want people to feel valued and appreciated. A joyful environment helps build trust, strengthens relationships, and creates a culture where both students and staff can thrive.

MFF: What defines your approach as a “teacher’s principal,” and how has it shaped your school’s culture and success?

Being a “teacher’s principal” means being willing to work alongside teachers and support them in meaningful ways. I don't mind jumping in wherever I am needed, whether that is helping with instruction, brainstorming solutions, analyzing data, or trying new strategies. I want teachers to see me as a partner and a resource. By fostering collaboration and building trust, we have created a culture where teachers feel supported, valued, and empowered to do their best work. When teachers succeed, students succeed, and that has been a key factor in our school’s growth.

MFF: Are you working on any interesting initiatives or new projects these days? Is there anything else you want to share about your school?

One area we are especially proud of is our continued work with Project-Based Learning (PBL). This past school year, we focused on incorporating soft skills into our PBL framework through the use of PBL rubrics. This helped teachers identify and intentionally develop skills students need beyond academics, such as collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. As a result, we have been able to better support the whole child and prepare students for success both inside and outside the classroom. It has been exciting to see students grow not only as learners but also as leaders and contributors within their teams and school community.