Teacher of the Year
Each year we recognize the amazing people in our schools by selecting a Teacher of the Year. Each school selects their individual teacher of the year and from that group one teacher is selected to represent Gainesville City School as the District Teacher of the year. The winning district recipient receives $10,000 from the Doug & Kay Ivester Foundation and each school level winner receives $500.
District Teacher of the Year: Mrs. Chandler Reed
Mrs. Reed is a third-grade teacher at Enota Multiple Intelligences Academy in Gainesville, Georgia. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Piedmont College and earned her Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Valdosta State University. Mrs. Reed found her calling through the influence of two key educators. Mr. Baughman saw potential in her as she led small group lessons and encouraged her to consider teaching. The spark was lit earlier, as a young girl sitting quietly at the back of the room, watching her mother, an educator, make each person feel seen and capable. Her mother didn’t just teach; she lit up the room, connecting with students in a way that turned learning into joy. Now, as a teacher, Mrs. Reed carries her mother’s legacy in every lesson she plans.
2026 Teacher of the Year Recipients:
- Centennial - Alison Odom (Art)
- Enota - Chandler Reed (3rd Grade)
- Fair Street - Amy Collins (SPED)
- Gainesville Exploration Academy - Hannah Green (SPED)
- Mundy Mill - Melinda Holtzclaw (Gifted)
- New Holland - Monica Underwood (5th Grade)
- Gainesville Middle East - Eileen Tolliver (7th Grade English)
- Gainesville Middle West - Erin Junk (8th Science)
- Gainesville High - Jared Koldoff (Social Studies)
- Horizon Academy - Melissa Hill (Math)