On Sept. 16, Ashe County Schools held a special event to recognize its 2024-25 teachers and staffers voted Best of the Year for 2024-25. The dinner, at the beautiful setting of Hidden Pastures Farm, was a time to recognize these amazing people who do so much for our students. In attendance were honorees and family members, as well as Ashe County Schools Board of Education members; Superintendent, Dr. Eisa Cox; Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, Dr. Susan Mochen; ACS directors; and principals from the honorees’ schools. Congratulations to each of these outstanding individuals, who dedicate their lives to serving our children and represent the very best of our community:

- Principal of the Year: Lindsey Williams, Ashe Early College

- Teacher of the Year: Jim Ashley, Ashe Early College

- Support Staff of the Year: Mandy Keziah, Westwood Elementary School

- CTE Teacher of the Year: Roxane Gilbert, Ashe County High School

- Classified Employee of the Year: Tim Walton, Ashe County High School

(Unable to attend):

- Rookie of the Year: Andy Cerillo, Ashe County Middle School

- Exceptional Children Educator of Excellence: Fran Franca, Westwood Elementary School