900 South Pine St.
Suite C
Spartanburg, SC 29303
864-327-4900
firststeps2@1steps.org

At Spartanburg County First Steps, we believe every child deserves someone in their corner.

This year, we’re proud to honor Dr. Jaime Dawson as our 2026 Children’s Champion—a leader who works every day to help children succeed by supporting the educators who guide them.

 

As Director of Literacy and Teacher Quality for Spartanburg School District 2, Dr. Dawson partners with teachers, principals, and instructional coaches to strengthen early learning across our community. Her work helps ensure children enter school ready to learn and grow.

 

From supporting programs like 4K, LETRS, and Countdown to Kindergarten to growing strong educators, her impact reaches far beyond one classroom.

“She is the best of the best…her heart is for kids and creating a bright future for them.”

— Kristen Senn, Director of Elementary Education, Spartanburg 2
Dr. Dawson’s leadership is rooted in both expertise and care—ensuring every child has access to high-quality learning during the most important early years.
We’re grateful for champions like Dr. Dawson who help build a stronger future for Spartanburg County—one child at a time.