Jackson-Madison County Schools announces district-level teachers of the year

JACKSON, TN — Jackson-Madison County Schools is proud to recognize its 2025-2026 District-Level Teachers of the Year, honoring four exceptional educators whose dedication, professionalism, and impact on students exemplify excellence in teaching.

The district-level honorees include Stephanie Lewis of Early College High School, representing grades 9–12; Chanda Brafa of Jackson Academic STEAM Academy, representing grades 6–8; and Karen McGee of Arlington Elementary School and Savannah Nevels of Andrew Jackson Elementary School, both representing grades PreK–4.

One of these district-level honorees will be chosen by the Teacher of the Year committee to represent Jackson-Madison County Schools at the regional level.

“Great school systems are built on the strength of great teachers,” said Superintendent Dr. Marlon King. “These educators represent the very best of Jackson-Madison County Schools. While their backgrounds vary in terms of their path to education, their commitment to students, their craft, and our communities makes a lasting difference, not just in classrooms, but across our district.”

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Vivian Williams emphasized the broader impact of the honor on the profession. “The Teacher of the Year program highlights the professionalism, innovation, and care our educators bring to their work every day,” Williams said. “Recognizing these teachers helps elevate the profession and reinforces the vital role educators play in shaping student success.”

These district-level honorees also reflect the varied paths educators take on their journey to Jackson-Madison County Schools. Karen McGee followed a traditional pathway into the profession and has served students in JMCSS for 14 years. Chanda Brafa is in her fourth year in public education but brings more than two decades of experience teaching in a music-based instructional setting, underscoring the diverse experiences that strengthen classrooms across the district.

Regional Associate Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Spight noted the daily influence these teachers have on students and school culture. “These honorees are leaders in their buildings and trusted partners with families,” Spight said. “They model what it means to serve students with purpose, high expectations, and heart.”

The Teacher of the Year program recognizes and celebrates outstanding educators in Madison County and throughout the state of Tennessee. Each school identifies a campus-level Teacher of the Year, and educators are selected to represent grade bands at the district level.

Jackson-Madison County Schools applauds these educators for devoting their professional lives to enriching the academic and personal growth of young people. The program also encourages greater participation in building strong partnerships between schools and the community.

A complete list of building-level Teachers of the Year is available at JMCSS.org.

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