Teachers
Mrs. Colleen Cottom
Hello. My name is Colleen Cottom and I am originally from outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I received my Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Kutztown University, located in the heart of Amish country, and moved to South Carolina in 2001 after graduation. For the past 24 years, my husband and I have called Rock Hill home. When I am not teaching, I love to be outside when it is warm, sitting by the pool and reading. My family and I love spending time outdoors (especially on the beach), watching Penn State football, and keeping up with the Philadelphia Phillies.
As much as I loved hearing the click-clack of the Amish horses & buggies and their delicious foods, the weather in South Carolina drew my husband and me in quickly.
I started my teaching career in Gastonia, NC where I taught 5th grade from 2001-2013. In 2013, I began teaching at York One Academy and have taught 5th through 8th grade English. I also spend time with our high school students helping them with their English courses. Teaching at YOA has given me new perspectives on making learning fun and connecting with students so they become more eager to learn.
Mr. D'Angelo Edwards
I currently serve as the 5th-8th grade mathematics teacher. I am a dedicated educator originally from Carlisle, South Carolina. I graduated from Union High School in Union, SC, before pursuing higher education at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. My passion for education continued as I obtained a Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership from Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC.
Over my 22-year career, I have become a seasoned educator with certifications in Elementary and Secondary Principalship, as well as in Elementary and Middle-Level Mathematics Teaching. I have served in numerous educational capacities including as a principal within the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice School District, an assistant principal and teacher within the Chester County School District, and an athletic coach for boys’ and girls’ basketball and football. My extensive experiences have allowed me to impact countless students and contribute to the development of educational practices in various school settings.
My commitment to education is shared by my parents who were educators and my wife, Teresa, who is a career educator herself. Together, we have raised four adult sons—Michael, D'Metrius, Torian, and D'Arrius—and are proud grandparents to five grandchildren. It is my hope that my family's legacy of service to education continues to inspire those around us as I continue to stress the importance of utilizing step by step processes to work through mathematical problems to determine viable solutions. Developing this concept in math correlates directly to solving life problems that they may be faced with daily.
Mrs. Shannon Ledford
My name is Shannon Ledford. I was born and raised in York, where I graduated from York Comprehensive High School. I earned a BS in Special Education from Winthrop University and a Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction from Liberty University. I have been teaching for 17 years.
I live in York with my husband, Mike, and our dog, Zeus. I enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time outdoors.
I look forward to partnering with you and your family to achieve educational goals and success for your student.
Mr. James Parham
Greetings everyone. My name is James Parham, III and I am the 5th-8th Social Studies Teacher here at YOA. As a York native and YCHS cougar, I have strong connection with this community. As a former police officer for the City of Spartanburg, I have a heart for students with unique needs and goals. I earned my bachelor's degree in Political Science, a second one in Criminal Justice from the University of South Carolina Upstate, and a master's degree in public administration from Liberty University. I am happily married to my lovely bride Gabriella. I also have a wonderful church community at Hope Point in Spartanburg. I am excited to challenge our students and expand their understanding of the world around them.