Richland One Announces Finalists for Top Employee Honors
Richland One Superintendent Dr. Craig Witherspoon has announced the finalists for the district’s 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year and Classified Employee of the Year Awards.
“Our Teacher of the Year and Classified Employee of the Year finalists embody the dedication and passion of the Richland One team. Each one plays a vital role in engaging, educating and empowering our students to reach their fullest potential and pursue their dreams,” said Dr. Witherspoon. “Congratulations to all of the finalists and thank you for your unwavering commitment to our students.”
The new Richland One Teacher of the Year and Classified Employee of the Year will be announced May 23 during Celebration 2025, the district’s year-end employee recognition event.
Finalists for 2025-2026 Richland One Teacher of the Year
- Aurelia Hamilton, fourth-grade ELA teacher, Rosewood Elementary School
- Zhaci Jones, first-grade teacher (English Language Arts, math, science, social studies and health), Carver-Lyon Elementary School
- Katherine Ketaner, fifth-grade math and science teacher, Brennen Elementary School
- Hallen Michel, English teacher (grades 9-12), A.C. Flora High School
- Melanie Williams, family and consumer sciences/early childhood education teacher (grades 9-12), Eau Claire High School
Finalists for 2025-2026 Richland One Classified Employee of the Year
- Alven Brown, in-school suspension supervisor, Pine Grove Elementary School
- Caroline Brown, administrative assistant, Gadsden Elementary School
- Melanie Dyer, instructional assistant, Horrell Hill Elementary School
- Ashley Payne, in-school suspension supervisor, Annie Burnside Elementary School
- Keith Wilder, schools supervisor, Office of Nutrition Services
