State School Superintendent Richard Woods today announced the full list of finalists for the 2027 Georgia Teacher of the Year recognition.

Throughout the month of March, Superintendent Woods surprised each finalist in their classroom to let them know they'd been selected. All 10 finalists will meet with a panel of judges for formal interviews and speeches before the 2027 Georgia Teacher of the Year selection in May.

"Today is a celebration of ten outstanding educators who represent the very best of Georgia's public schools," Superintendent Woods said. "Each of these finalists is making a lasting difference for students – helping them grow, achieve, and believe in what's possible for their futures. I congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition and thank them for the passion, creativity, and commitment they bring to their classrooms every day. I ask all Georgians to join me in celebrating these educators as we continue the selection process for the 2027 Georgia Teacher of the Year."

The finalists were chosen from a pool of applicants, all previously selected as their school district's Teacher of the Year. The applications were read and scored by a group of reviewers that included past Georgia Teacher of the Year winners and finalists, along with Georgia Department of Education representatives.

The 2027 Georgia Teacher of the Year will serve as an ambassador for the teaching profession in Georgia and will be entered in the National Teacher of the Year competition. The 2026 Georgia Teacher of the Year is Rachel Kinsaul of Morgan County, who was also named a finalist for the 2026 National Teacher of the Year.

"Getting to be part of the Georgia Teacher of the Year program has been the opportunity of a lifetime," Kinsaul said. "Connecting with teachers across the state and seeing firsthand the incredible work happening in classrooms has been truly transformative. Serving as their voice is an honor I do not take lightly. I am excited for this year's cohort and wish them all the best as they begin this life-changing journey."

Georgia Teacher of the Year operates one year ahead to align with the national program; the 2027 Georgia Teacher of the Year will serve from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027.

2026 Georgia Teacher of the Year Finalists (in alphabetical order by last name)

Amanda Dillard – Cobb County

Mrs. Amanda Dillard is an interrelated special education teacher at Pope High School in Cobb County.

With 18 years of experience, she teaches special education with a focus on math and is passionate about helping students discover their purpose and potential. She founded Pope High School's esports program and serves as head coach, creating meaningful opportunities for students of all abilities that build confidence, collaboration, and belonging.

Mrs. Dillard is a three-time graduate of the University of West Georgia, holding a bachelor's degree in collaborative special education, a master's degree in special education, and a specialist degree in instructional technology. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in school improvement.

Victor Fordham – Candler County

Dr. Victor Fordham is a social studies teacher at Metter High School in Candler County.

With 13 years of experience, Dr. Fordham teaches world history, U.S. history, and dual enrollment U.S. history. He also serves as the social studies department head and as an adjunct history instructor at the college level, helping students develop disciplinary literacy and a deep understanding of the connections between past and present.

Dr. Fordham earned a Doctor of Philosophy in History from Liberty University, a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling from Luther Rice College & Seminary, a Master of Arts in History from Liberty University, and bachelor's degrees in history and education from Brewton-Parker College.

Ashleigh Kenny – Lowndes County

Ms. Ashleigh Kenny is an instructional lead teacher and English language arts teacher at Pine Grove Middle School in Lowndes County.

With 13 years of experience, Ms. Kenny balances classroom instruction with instructional leadership, coaching teachers, and leading curriculum development across her school. She is passionate about building strong relationships, strengthening writing instruction, and connecting students to meaningful community partnerships that extend learning beyond the classroom.

Ms. Kenny earned a Bachelor of Arts in English, a Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary English, and an Education Specialist degree in Teacher Leadership from Valdosta State University.

Katie Lessard – Gwinnett County

Mrs. Katie Lessard is a fourth-grade teacher at Puckett's Mill Elementary School in Gwinnett County.

With more than 20 years of experience, Mrs. Lessard teaches math, science, and social studies while integrating STEM, literacy, and authentic project-based learning into her classroom. She is passionate about fostering curiosity, empathy, and civic engagement – ensuring every student feels valued and prepared to thrive.

Mrs. Lessard earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Florida Atlantic University and a master's degree in teaching and learning with a concentration in STEAM education from Clemson University. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in educational practice and innovation with a concentration in STEM education at the University of South Carolina.

Charm Mapp, Jones County

Mrs. Charm Mapp is an eighth-grade math teacher at Clifton Ridge Middle School in Jones County.

With 23 years of experience, Mrs. Mapp serves as a gifted lead teacher and supports the Jones County Virtual Academy. She is passionate about challenging students to embrace curiosity, confidence, and a love for learning through authentic mathematical thinking and the Gifted FIRE Project Showcase.

Mrs. Mapp holds bachelor's and master's degrees in middle grades education and a specialist's degree in curriculum & instruction from Georgia College & State University, and is currently pursuing her doctorate in curriculum and instruction.

Timothy Pritchett – Clarke County

Mr. Timothy Pritchett is a third-grade teacher at Barnett Shoals Elementary School in Clarke County.

With eight years of experience, Mr. Pritchett teaches English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. He launched free tutoring initiatives – Lunch Learners and After-School Achievers – to provide targeted academic support, and he has helped lead schoolwide PBIS and Leader in Me efforts that strengthened both student achievement and school culture.

Mr. Pritchett earned a bachelor's degree in mass communication from Benedict College, a Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood Education, and a Master of Education in Educational Administration and Policy from the University of Georgia. He is currently pursuing a specialist degree in Educational Psychology (Gifted & Creative Education).

Kanesha Roberts – Richmond County

Chef Kanesha Roberts is a culinary arts teacher at George Phineas Butler Comprehensive High School in Richmond County.

With 10 years of experience, Chef Roberts brings real-world expertise into the classroom as a former United States Army culinary specialist and entrepreneur. She is passionate about creating a culinary classroom where students build confidence, professionalism, and career-ready skills through authentic industry experiences and community partnerships.

Chef Roberts holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Culinary Arts from Le Cordon Bleu and is certified in culinary arts (6-12).

Miranda Scott – Clayton County

Ms. Miranda Scott is a business and computer science CTAE teacher at Charles R. Drew High School in Clayton County.  

She serves as the CTAE Department Chair and Work-Based Learning Coordinator at Drew High School, where she is passionate about preparing students for life beyond graduation. A career changer with experience in management and human resources, she brings real-world relevance into the classroom, helping students explore college, career, employment, and entrepreneurial pathways with confidence.

Ms. Scott holds a bachelor's degree in business management from the University of West Georgia, a master's degree in business education from the University of West Georgia, and a master's degree in human resource management from Columbia Southern University.

Lisa Spence – Cherokee County

Dr. Lisa Pritchard Spence is a K–5 visual arts teacher at Hasty Elementary Fine Arts Academy in Cherokee County.

With 17 years of experience, Dr. Spence is dedicated to developing students' creativity and critical thinking through arts integration and authentic learning experiences. She has led schoolwide fine arts initiatives, including Hasty's annual Fine Arts Field Day, and serves in multiple leadership roles with the Georgia Art Education Association.

Dr. Spence earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Georgia, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Georgia College & State University, an education specialist degree in curriculum and instruction from Piedmont University, and a Doctor of Education in curriculum and instruction from Liberty University.

Robert Stewart – Coffee County

Dr. Robert Stewart is an eighth-grade English language arts and gifted education teacher at Coffee Middle School in Coffee County.

With 31 years of experience spanning elementary, middle, high school, college, and correctional education settings, Dr. Stewart brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective to his classroom. He is a passionate advocate for lifelong learning and has served in numerous leadership roles, including as an advisor to the National Junior Honor Society and a member of his school's leadership team.

Dr. Stewart earned a bachelor's degree in elementary and middle grades education and a master's degree in community counseling from Appalachian State University, as well as a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration and Policy Studies from the University of Tennessee.