Music teacher honored by Spartanburg County schools

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A Rutherford County native and Chase High School graduate has been honored by Spartanburg School District Two where she teaches music.

Jana White Curry, a longtime music teacher, was awarded the highest civilian honor in the state of South Carolina on Thursday, March 26.

On Thursday evening, Boiling Springs Elementary School presented the Annual South Carolina program. The beloved performance has been a tradition since 1991 for thousands of third and fourth grade students. The program celebrated the music, history and culture of South Carolina and was based on songs written for the state's 300th anniversary. This year, students sang favorites including, "Sandlappers," "Carolina Sunshine" and "Stand Tall."

Music teacher Curry has directed the school's South Carolina program for 26 of 35 performances. In her classroom, she teaches kindergarten through fifth grade and emphasizes state songs, folk, spirituals and patriotic music.

In honor of her commitment to the students of South Carolina and advancement of state music, history and culture, Mrs. Curry was presented the 2026 Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in South Carolina. This award was presented by Representative Steven Long following the program.

"Through her enthusiastic teaching style, collaboration with local Veterans' organizations, and amazing school programs, generations of kids have been enriched by Mrs. Curry's passion for music," said one spokesperson.

Curry stated, "Being the recipient of the Order of the Palmetto is one of the great honors of my lifetime. I'm so fortunate I can use my talents to guide my student's understanding of our music, history and culture and truly appreciate being recognized for my efforts."

Curry is the daughter of Phillip and Alpha White, both retired educators in Rutherford County.