Thursday, October 3, 2024–12:15 p.m.
-News Release-
Floyd County Schools (FCS) is proud to announce that Stacy Thompson, a dedicated 7th Grade Science teacher at Pepperell Middle School, has been named the District Teacher of the Year (TOTY). Additionally, Tim Reynolds, a committed Special Education Paraprofessional at Model Middle School, has been honored as the first-ever District Support Staff of the Year (SSOTY).
Stacy Thompson, Melissa Maiwald of Alto Park, and Gretchen Brock of the College and Career Academy were named the top three finalists for the District TOTY. Additionally, Tim Reynolds, Ginny Jones of Model Elementary, and Tanya Colding of Coosa Middle were selected as finalists for the District SSOTY.
Stacy Thompson has been an inspiring educator in the Pepperell area for over two decades. Her innovative teaching methods, passion, and unwavering commitment to student success have made a significant impact on the school and system communities. Known for her engaging science lessons, her ability to make complex concepts accessible, and the true talent of showcasing her passion in all that she does, Stacy has fostered a love for learning in her students. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom, as she actively participates in various school activities and shows support for all of her students.
“Mrs. Thompson is an amazing educator, a fantastic person, and is everyone’s biggest cheerleader,” says Pepperell Middle principal Courtney Hampton. “She is always willing to help her fellow staff members and her students. She goes above and beyond for our school community, and will show up to cheer all of the students on at all of their events. “She deserves this honor so much, and it was a privilege to see her be named our winner. We are blessed to have her at Pepperell Middle.”
Tim Reynold has been a vital part of the Floyd County Schools community, providing exceptional support to students with special needs and serving his community in various ways. Since the age of 18, Mr. Reynolds has been employed with FCS, and his compassionate approach and tireless efforts have greatly contributed to the overall success of the system. Tim’s ability to connect with students and his dedication to their individual growth and development have earned him the respect and admiration of both colleagues and parents. As the first recipient of the District Support Staff of the Year award, Tim sets a high standard for excellence in support roles.
“Tim teaches us love, patience, and kindness every day,” says Model Middle principal Jill Thacker. “We have the opportunity to learn from Mr. Reynolds daily, and it is truly a blessing. He always shows up to work with a smile on his face and never gets rattled. No matter what happens, he is always there and the same person. Our kids and our staff love him dearly.”
“We are incredibly proud of Stacy Thompson and Tim Reynolds, and all of our honorees, for their outstanding contributions to our schools,” said Dr. Glenn White, Superintendent of FCS. “Their dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence exemplify the values we strive to uphold in our district, and it is an honor to work with them. Last night was a great evening full of celebration and recognition for these outstanding employees and educators.”
Each school named its individual Teacher and Support Staff of the Year at the end of last school year. For the TOTY process, each teacher was then interviewed by a panel of retired educators who then voted anonymously to select three finalists. The finalists were observed and evaluated in their classrooms by another set of judges to finalize the winner. For the SSOTY process, the staff members submitted a letter of recommendation and participated in a round of interviews. Three finalists were named, then the overall winner. All FCS teachers and staff members of the year were announced and celebrated during the FCS Teacher of the Year last night.
Primary and Elementary School Teachers and Support Staff of the Year were Kristen Tucker and Penny Smith (Armuchee Primary), Brian Mitchell and Cauprice Clance (Armuchee Elementary), Melissa Maiwald and Anslie Castillo (Alto Park), Tracy England and Kim Richardson (Garden Lakes), Abby Stell and Kelly Knowles (Johnson Elementary), Paulene Middleton and Ginny Jones (Model Elementary), Trina Burnette and Erin Davenport (Pepperell Primary), and Shirley Rutledge and Stephanie Caldwell (Pepperell Elementary).
Middle School Teachers and Support Staff of the Year were Hailey Burns (Armuchee Middle), Jennifer Stephens and Tanya Colding (Coosa Middle), Allison Holcomb and Tim Reynolds (Model Middle), and Stacy Thompson and Laura Tucker (Pepperell Middle).
High School Teachers and Support Staff of the Year were Cassie Hellriegel and Brynn Dexter (Armuchee High), Amy Jo Hill Santiago (Coosa High), Jessica Kennedy (Model High), Jonathan Silver and Myra Rogers (Pepperell High), and Gretchen Brock (CCA).
Teachers of the Year in Floyd County Schools exemplify the characteristics of teaching excellence. Their dedication, knowledge, and passion for teaching enable our students to succeed! FCS commends the positive impact teachers have on students, staff, and Floyd County families each and every day!