Teacher Appreciation Week
As GCPS recognizes National Teacher Day (May 6) and Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5-9), our award-winning educators share their words of encouragement and inspiration with the TeamGCPS teaching corps.
GCPS educators, your commitment, dedication, and compassion make a tremendous impact on the lives of our students across the district. Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do to help our students finish this school year strong!
Katie Lessard
2026 GCPS Teacher of the Year and Elementary School Teacher of the Year
4th Grade Teacher
Puckett's Mill Elementary School
“Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! The future of the world is in each and every one of our classrooms. Thank you for all you do to show up and empower our students. It is a privilege and honor to serve with you on Team GCPS!”
Abby Paul
2026 Middle School Teacher of the Year
Physical Science Teacher
Berkmar Middle School
“Teachers, thank you for igniting curiosity, building confidence, and showing students what they're capable of becoming. Thank you for every conversation and act of encouragement that serves to build leaders, thinkers, and compassionate human beings who carry those lessons into the future. You are the heart of our GCPS community.”
Nakaya Manning
2026 High School Teacher of the Year
Journalism I-IV, Business Communication, Peer Leading & Mentoring, and Student Leadership Teacher
Central Gwinnett High School
"'A teacher affects eternity; you can never tell where their influence ends.' As we celebrate this week, take some time to marvel at your impact. You are the reason someone shows up every day and works hard. Your dedication and passion inspire students and make the type of difference that will stretch far into future generations. Thank you for your tireless efforts and commitment to showing up for our community. Enjoy your moment.“
Dr. Sharese Colbert
2026 Teacher of the Year Finalist
Reading Enrichment Teacher
Radloff Middle School
“Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! GCPS teachers, you don’t just teach. You leave lasting imprints on hearts and futures. With empathy at the center, you uplift every learner. With equity in focus, you open doors. Through effectiveness and excellence, you reimagine what school can truly be. The world is brighter and more just because of your unwavering commitment every single day. #ReimagineEducation #GCPSTeachersLead #GCPSProud"
Mia Johnson
2026 Teacher of the Year Finalist
Algebra Concepts and Connections, Foundations of Algebra, and College Readiness Teacher
Shiloh High School
“Your impact is immeasurable, your heart is unmatched, and your work is nothing short of extraordinary. You don’t just teach. You empower, uplift, and transform lives every single day. Of course, every day should be Teacher’s Appreciation Day, but officially, this week is for YOU! Know that you’re a big deal, soak it up, and enjoy every bit of the love you so deeply deserve! You are the magic behind the mission! Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!”
Amber Melander
2026 Teacher of the Year Finalist
Computer Science Specials Teacher
Patrick Elementary School
“Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to all of our amazing GCPS educators! Every day each of you show up with heart, creativity, and care—thank you for making learning meaningful for your students and the load lighter for all of us who work with you!”