The most coveted award of all is the prestigious "Teacher of the Year" award. This year this recognition was given to Mark Brogdon, who teaches fourth grade at Riverside Elementary School. Brogdon, a dedicated teacher who loves his profession, was surprised by his designation. He will receive $1350 in various cash awards, a special ring denoting his award, and he will now be entered in the running for the Teacher of the Year award at the state level.

The "Rookie Teacher of the Year' award is given to the outstanding new teacher each year. The winner of the 2012 Rookie of the Year award is Anna Beth Parmer, who teaches kindergarten in Graceville. Parmer won a $125 cash award along with a plaque which commemorates her accomplishment.

The third notable award given each year is the "Vivian Ford School Related Employee of the Year Award", which is given to the outstanding member of the support staff within the school system. This year the winner was Gay Gaines, who is a computer and accounting clerk in the Records and Archiving Office.

Nominees for these awards this year were: Teacher of the Year Janet Baxley, Melissa Mitchell, Teresa Hendrix, Teresa Nichols Long, Becky Collins, Amanda Bloomer, Ashley Pelt, Donna Braxton, Cynthia Blackmon, Lizabeth Wilson, Susie Mayo, Winnie Edwards, Shelia Benton, Orenza Waddell, Dr. Jerri Benton, Bennett Tocci, Brandis Perkins, and Rhianna Dowling.

Rookie Teacher of the Year Mackenzie Johnson, Jennifer Castleberry, Ray Lawson, Joy Miles, Spring Taylor, and Casey Lawrence.

Vivian Ford School Related Employee of the Year Beth Lewis, Carolyn Everett, Kim Lamb, Larry Jackson, Linda Hendrickson, Faith Kent, Kimberly Speights, Charles Jarmon, Felipe Delgado, Pam Strickland, Mary Cotton, Byron Williams, Kathy Ferrell, Gina Highsmith, Tiffany Smith, Kristy Chambliss, Kimberly Johnson, and Vanessa Clark.

Our congratulations to the winners and all nominees. Thank you for your service to the families of Jackson County.