Henry County Schools to Crown 2026 Teacher of the Year Among Six Semifinalists

HENRY COUNTY, GA – Henry County Schools will announce the district’s 2026 Teacher of the Year on Sept. 24 in a ceremony at the McDonough Performing Arts Center.

The event recognizing top-tier educators is the school district’s largest celebration of teachers. Among the Teachers of the Year at every school, six semifinalists were chosen to compete for the award districtwide.

“Teaching is the most noble and honorable profession, and teachers are the backbone of all we do in Henry County Schools,” Superintendent Dr. John Pace III said. “I am inspired by our teachers’ commitment to fostering excellence, changing lives, and ensuring bright futures begin in Henry County Schools. Congratulations to our semifinalists and all our school-based Teachers of the Year.”

Each school’s Teacher of the Year is recognized for going above and beyond to serve their school and community. A committee of district leaders uses rigorous criteria to choose the semifinalists.

Guests, event sponsors, and members of the Henry County Board of Education will attend the ceremony. Three Teacher of the Year finalists – one each for the elementary, middle, and high school levels – will be named before the HCS Teacher of the Year is announced.

The semifinalists are listed below, alphabetically by last name within each school level, along with testimonials from school administrators.

Tina Buchanan is an art teacher at New Hope Elementary School.

“Ms. Buchanan embraced a new role for her as New Hope’s art teacher. We have been so impressed by her passion for her new role, how much the students have enjoyed going to her class, and the quality of the art that they have produced under her instruction. Not only did she learn to teach art effectively, but she has also filled our halls with examples of the amazing art our students have created. Ms. Buchanan goes above and beyond when it comes to creating engaging learning experiences, boosting the climate and culture of the school by decorating for staff and community events, and helping with designing sets for the musical. She is loved and respected by teachers, staff, and students throughout our building.”

Valri Ford was an English for Speakers of Other Languages teacher at Red Oak Elementary School last year before accepting a position at the district level.

“Mrs. Ford serves as our ESOL teacher and has consistently demonstrated excellence in supporting multilingual learners throughout her years of service. She leads with positivity and professionalism, encouraging both students and colleagues to be the best version of themselves each day. Mrs. Ford not only helps students achieve above and beyond academically, but she also fosters a deep appreciation for culture through heritage month celebrations and schoolwide initiatives. She has facilitated impactful professional learning sessions, ensuring clarity, understanding, and growth for staff members. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, as she actively supports schoolwide events and mentors others in developing their own leadership capacity. Red Oak is better because of Mrs. Ford, and we are honored to recognize her dedication, optimism, and commitment to excellence.”

Zachary Barfield is an eighth grade Georgia studies teacher at Ola Middle School.

“A cornerstone of the Ola Middle School family for the past eight years, Mr. Barfield is a phenomenal eighth grade social studies teacher who brings history to life every single day. His dedication to excellence is unmatched; he has mentored countless students, leading them to compete at the national level in the National History Day competition. Beyond the classroom, he is a respected leader and frequent presenter at state social studies conferences, proudly representing the high standards of Henry County Schools. We are so incredibly proud to have his passion and expertise shaping the minds of our students.”

Tierra Rodgers is an eighth grade math, Algebra I, and seventh grade advanced math teacher at Austin Road Middle School.

“Ms. Rodgers continues to make an incredible impact on student achievement through her passion, consistency, and engaging instruction. Her students are demonstrating strong academic growth and gains while genuinely developing a love for learning math. Austin Road Middle School has been recognized by the state of Georgia as a Math Leader for the past two consecutive years due to Ms. Rodgers’ students consistently making double-digit gains, highlighting her excellence in mathematics instruction and student achievement. Beyond the classroom, she brings a wonderful spirit to our building, connects exceptionally well with students, and serves as a dependable and positive presence each day. Her dedication, professionalism, and heart for children truly make her an ‘ARMazing’ educator.”

Lt. Ohmahr Fleming is a Navy JROTC teacher at Luella High School.

“We call it ‘The Luella Way.’ Lt. Ohmahr Fleming lives it every day. As a retired U.S. Navy veteran and NJROTC instructor, he has seamlessly translated his years of service into a masterclass on leadership within our halls. Lt. Fleming is more than an educator; he is a transformational mentor who holds students to the highest standards while providing the unwavering support they need to reach them. By fostering a culture of pride and personal integrity throughout ‘The Den,’ he ensures our students graduate not just with a diploma, but with the character required for lifelong success. He truly embodies our core tenets of pride, excellence, and fortitude.”

Dr. Nikkia Whitley is an Exceptional Student Education teacher at Dutchtown High School.

“Dr. Whitley serves as our ESE Department chair and consistently goes above and beyond to support both students and staff. Her leadership, dedication, and ability to build meaningful relationships with our scholars help create a positive and inclusive culture throughout the ‘Dawghouse.’ Dr. Whitley’s infectious positivity, encouraging spirit, and unwavering commitment to excellence make a lasting impact every single day. We are truly grateful for the energy, compassion, and leadership she brings to Dutchtown High School.