Principal Eugene Sires used a collaborative approach to education at Summerville Elementary School in Summerville, providing parents and staff with frequent opportunities to participate in the decision-making process. Literacy was also a major priority for Dr. Sires: his students read a combined total of 91,000 books during their first semester, and several of his students authored and published their own books for the school library. His hands-on literacy curriculum earned Summerville numerous awards, including a Blue Ribbon School award from the National Association of Elementary School Principals. Dr. Sires also maintained a petting zoo outside his office and often took the animals into the classroom for his students' enjoyment and education.
1972 University of South Carolina, B.A.
