Sonya Hayden is a native of Columbia, SC. She graduated from USC-Columbia with a B.A. in Elementary Education, The University of Charleston in collaboration with The Citadel with a M.Ed. in Special Education, and Lamar University with School Leadership and Administration Certification.
Sonya began her teaching career in Berkeley County teaching at J.K. Gourdin Elementary and Cross Elementary. She has previously taught at Spring Valley High School and served for 16 years as the Transition Specialist for Ridge View High School. Most recently Sonya coordinated a work simulation program, P.O.W.E.R.-i (Premier Opportunities for Work and Employment Readiness through Innovation) in collaboration with R2i2 Student Innovation Center.
Sonya believes R2i2 offers a unique and stimulating environment where high school students in Richland School District Two can explore their innovative interests while engaging the global community. Sonya’s favorite quote: “When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy.” ― Rumi
