Katie Lessard named as a finalist for the GaDOE's 2027 Teacher of the Year award

     Puckett’s Mill Elementary School teacher Katie Lessard has been selected as one of the top 10 finalists for the Georgia Department of Education’s 2027 Teacher of the Year award.

     Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods stopped by Puckett’s Mill to share the announcement with Lessard and the school community. The visit was part of the state’s tradition of personally notifying finalists before the list is made public.

     Lessard, who is a 5th‑grade teacher, is known for the steady routines and real‑world problem-solving approach she builds into her classroom.

     “This is truly such an honor. I’ve had the chance to get to know many of the 2026 District Teachers of the Year through our cohort group posts, and I’m constantly inspired by the incredible educators we have across the state,” Lessard shares. “To be named among them is deeply humbling. I’m grateful for this recognition and will continue to work hard every day to be worthy of this distinct honor.”

     Lessard works closely with her grade‑level team, supports instructional planning, and regularly volunteers during schoolwide events. Most importantly, however, colleagues say students respond to the clarity and consistency Lessard brings to daily learning.

     “Lessard is an exemplary educator with a remarkable ability to build genuine, lasting relationships with students, families, and the Mill Creek community,” says Puckett’s Mill Elementary School Principal Lisa Rhodes. “She is an expert in her field, delivering high-quality instruction while thoughtfully differentiating to meet the diverse needs of all learners. Katie regularly collaborates with educators at the local, county, and state levels and has presented at conferences on STEM, Social Studies, and Project-Based Learning. As the sponsor of our Student Council, she intentionally partners with Mill Creek High School's student council to create a strong vertical pipeline of student leadership within our community.”

     The Georgia Department of Education will name the state’s Teacher of the Year later this spring after finalists complete interviews and submit additional materials. The winner will serve as an advocate for public education throughout the state during the 2026‑27 school year.