Meet Your Jackson County #1 Educators

By: Shelia Mader

The Jackson County School Board returned a tradition this year that has been missing since the onslaught of Covid in 2019. The spectacular Teacher of the Year Banquet recognizing all educators but emphasis on the ones chosen to represent their school as Teacher of the Year, Rookie Teacher of the Year, School Replated Employee of the Year, Assistant Principal of the Year and last but not least, Principal of the Year.

This year’s event was held at Marianna High School with all the bells and whistles of past events. The Teacher of the Year was covered in a separate article in this week’s Times.

Chosen from a field of eight Rookie of the Year teachers was Destiny Melzer from Cottondale Elementary School. Melzer has been named Jackson County’s Rookie Teacher of the Year, recognized for her strong start in the classroom and commitment to her students’ success.

Pattie Abel of Sneads Elementary School has been honored as Jackson County’s School-Related Employee of the Year for her dedication and the vital support she provides to students and staff each day. She was chosen out of 15 nominees.

Leslie Linton of Sneads Elementary School has been selected as Jackson County’s Assistant Principal of the Year, recognized for her leadership and positive impact on her school community.

Rex Suggs of the Jackson County Opportunity Center has been named Jackson County’s Principal of the Year for his leadership and commitment to helping students reach their full potential.

Congratulations to all those who emerged as Jackson County’s Chosen, and to all educators who give their all to the future generations