JAMES WOOD

Staff Writer

Bedford County Schools (BCS) hosted a banquet on May 12 to announce and commemorate its Teachers of the Year for the 2025-26 School Year.

Principals from each school in the district selected educators that stood out in their efforts to serve students, faculty and the community at large.

Retiring School Superintendent Tammy Garrett spoke during the event, sharing her appreciation for all that those who work for BCS do for the community.

“Tonight is one of my favorite nights to celebrate educators,” said Garrett. “I think educators are one the greatest groups of people that you can surround yourself with.”

BCS Board of Education Chairman Michael Cook shared his support for teachers in Bedford County.

“If you put kids in a good environment where they feel safe, where they feel loved, they will be better,” said Cook.

The following list is of the educators who were recognized as Teachers of the Year by their schools:

Cartwright Elementary School: Maria Teresa Altgilbers – TOY, Morgan Buxton – Novice TOY

Cascade Elementary School: Cheri Blackwell – TOY, Carmen Calvert – Novice TOY, Hannah Fanning – Assistant Principal of the Year

Cascade Middle School: Andy Gibson – TOY

Cascade High School: Bailey Cantrell – TOY, William Robert Carter – Novice TOY

Community Elementary School: Jennie Haskins – TOY, Jessica Haun – Novice TOY

Community Middle School: April Blanton – TOY, Karla Pena – Novice TOY

Community High School: Kaycee Martin – TOY, LeAndra Holder – Novice TOY, Alana Clark – Aspiring TOY

Eakin Elementary School: Chastity Stewart – TOY, Hayley Woods – Novice TOY

East Side Elementary School: Andrea Tannehill – TOY, Ashley Jimenez – Novice TOY

Harris Middle School: Kacy Bondurant – TOY

Learning Way Elementary School: Jessica Barnett – TOY, Katlynn Luttrell – Novice TOY

Liberty School: Kelsey Whaley – TOY, Brooklyn Mooneyham – Novice TOY

Shelbyville Central High School: Heather Savage – TOY, Linsey Devlin – Novice TOY

Southside Elementary School: Amanda Counts – TOY, Hannah Stephens – Novice TOY

Thomas Magnet School: Mandy Simon – TOY

Bedford County Learning Academy: Michael Mars – TOY, Wendy Knight – Novice TOY

Garrett added her thoughts on highlighting teachers who go above and beyond to form the next generation.

“Tonight we recognize educators who exemplify excellence in the classroom and leaders within our schools,” she continued. “They foster confidence, they build relationships and create environments where students will feel valued and capable of reaching their dreams.”

In addition to teachers, Meredith Garland of Eakin Elementary School was recognized as Principal of the Year. Janet Clarkson was recognized for the RISE Award and Neil Watson was recognized as the Supervisor of the Year.