Teachers of the Year and 2026 Retirees
At its meeting this month, Floyd County School Board recognized Teachers of the Year and school district retirees.
At its meeting this month, Floyd County School Board recognized Teachers of the Year from each school in the district and named the 2026 Division Teacher of the Year.
Carol Trejo of Check Elementary, Senora Faulkner of Floyd County High School, Madeline Townley of Floyd Elementary, Laken Craighead of Indian Valley Elementary, and Chelsea Gibbs of Willis Elementary were voted Teachers of the Year of their individual schools in April.
Director of Secondary Instruction Travis Cantrell, who introduced each educator at the May 11 meeting, said they go “way beyond just teaching a curriculum. They create kind, supportive spaces and inspire a real love for learning. They see the potential in every student and work so hard to help them succeed.”
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Cantrell also shared sentiments from colleagues and administrators about each Teacher of the Year:
“Trejo creates a classroom filled with love, encouragement, and kindness where every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to learn. Her passion for children and a wavering commitment to their emotional and academic growth make her a model of what an educator should be.
“Faulkner's classroom extends far beyond technical instruction. She teaches empathy, service, leadership, and purpose. Her students leave her program not only career ready, but prepared to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
“Though in her first year of teaching, Townley has already demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, and innovation. She teaches far beyond the standards, instilling confidence, kindness, and a belief in every student that they are capable of greatness.
“Craighead creates a classroom where students feel respected, supported, and motivated to achieve their full potential. Her creativity, compassion, and ability to make learning engaging leave a lasting impact on students both academically and personally.
“Gibbs inspires students at every level by creating meaningful musical experiences that build confidence, discipline, and joy. Through her leadership and passion, she has strengthened music programs across Floyd County while building lasting connections among students, families, and schools.”
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The overall Floyd County Teacher of the Year was announced to be Senora Faulkner, who teaches Certified Nursing Assistant courses and is a co-sponsor of the Health Occupations Students of America Club at Floyd County High School. Cantrell said Faulkner’s impact “has resonated across our entire community with particular distinction,” and she “doesn’t just lead a classroom” but also leads by example. “Whether it is through fostering a sense of purpose, driving innovation and career exploration, or building lasting connections, [her] dedication is a model for us all,” Cantrell added.
The support of two local businesses was also highlighted during the May 11 meeting as a part of the Virginia School Board Association’s Community Business Honor Roll Awards. Cantrell thanked Skyline National Bank for its generous donation to the new track at the high school and its continuing support of the Teachers of the Year recognition. Floyd Xpress Market was thanked for its donations and support to a variety of student organizations. Cantrell said that the crew at Xpress “is always willing to help us out.”
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2026 Retirees
To celebrate their hard work and commitment to the young minds of Floyd County, the School Board also presented this year’s retirees with a wooden cutout of the county with the location of each public school with an apple.
This year’s class includes:
- Monica Costine, Teacher at Willis Elementary
- Carol Cox, School Counselor at Willis Elementary
- Janet Harris, Director of Personnel Services at the School Board Office
- Barry Hollandsworth, Principal at Floyd County High School
- Dennis Hollandsworth, Custodian at Indian Valley Elementary
- Pamela Linkous, Speech Language Pathologist at Check Elementary
- Jeannie Marshall, Instructional Assistant at Indian Valley Elementary
- Patsy Turman, Administrative Assistant at Indian Valley Elementary
- Karen Whitlock, Instructional Assistant at Floyd Elementary
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