Each year, Haywood County Schools recognizes outstanding employees whose dedication,
service, and commitment help make our schools exceptional places to learn and grow. From
transportation and maintenance to nutrition, technology, student support, and beyond, these
individuals play a vital role in supporting students, staff, and families every day.
The 2025-2026 Employees of the Year represent the very best of Haywood County Schools.
Through their hard work, positive attitudes, and unwavering dedication, they make a difference
in the lives of students and colleagues alike. We are proud to recognize and celebrate the
following individuals for their outstanding contributions to our district.
After School Employee of the Year- Ivy Taylor (Riverbend Elementary)
Ivy consistently demonstrates kindness, dependability, and a genuine commitment to the
students she serves each day. She creates a welcoming environment at Riverbend, where
students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to succeed. Her positive attitude and
willingness to help wherever needed make her an invaluable member of our after-school team.
Bus Driver of the Year- Lola Sharpe (Clyde Elementary)
Lola is known for her warm spirit, dedication, and genuine care for the students she serves each
day. She has served as a bus monitor and driver, always putting students’ safety and well-being
first. Her positive attitude, encouraging presence, and willingness to go above and beyond
make her a valued member of the Clyde team and a true joy to be around.
Custodian of the Year- Steve Ray (Waynesville Middle School)
Steve is the kind of person everyone relies on- if you have a problem, he can usually help solve
it or point you to the right person who can. Steve takes tremendous pride in his work and
ensures that every task is completed correctly and efficiently. Beyond maintaining facilities, he
drives a bus, manages operational responsibilities, and works tirelessly behind the scenes to
keep our school running smoothly. He often anticipates needs before they arise and goes above
and beyond to support students, staff, and visitors. Whether addressing a maintenance
concern, or simply lending a helping hand, Steve approaches every challenge with a positive
attitude and a strong commitment.
Food Service Employee of the Year- Angie Pless (Tuscola High School)
Angie goes above and beyond every day to create a positive experience for students at Tuscola
High School. She is always looking for new recipes and à la carte options to keep meals exciting
and enjoyable for students. Angie is also a true team player. Even when her own cafeteria is
short-staffed, she willingly shares staff to help other schools in need. When thanked for her
generosity, she simply says, “That’s what we are supposed to do; we are a team, we help each
other out.” That spirit of collaboration and service exemplifies her commitment to our students
and colleagues. In addition to her work at THS, Angie serves as the District 1- Director for the
North Carolina School Nutrition Association and is a past president of the Haywood County
School Nutrition Association.
Instructional Technology Employee of the Year- Ira Hyde
Ira is an innovative leader who supports instructional technology, media coordinators, and
educators across our district. His expertise in technology, and AI tools has helped staff embrace
new opportunities for teaching and learning. Known for being both incredibly knowledgeable
and approachable, Ira is always willing to share his expertise and help others solve problems.
He consistently encourages innovation while ensuring that technology is used to enhance
student success. His leadership, vision, and commitment to supporting educators make a lasting
impact on Haywood County Schools.
Instructional Support Employee of the Year- Lindsey Moore (North Canton and Clyde
Elementary)
As a guidance counselor at NCE and Clyde this year, Lindsay goes above and beyond every day
to support students, families, and staff with compassion, professionalism, and unwavering
loyalty. She balances a wide range of responsibilities, from teaching classroom guidance lessons
and leading small groups to providing individual counseling and responding to student crises
with care and empathy. Lindsay also works tirelessly organizing food bags for families in need to
ensure that students have the resources necessary to succeed both inside and outside the
classroom. Whether serving her own schools or stepping in to assist others across the district,
Lindsay approaches every challenge with a positive attitude and a student-centered focus. Her
impact can be seen in the countless students who feel safe and supported in her presence and
the families who know they have a trusted advocate. And, of course, it doesn’t hurt that she
shares her kindness with the help of Grimly, her beloved NCE Guidance Support Dog, who helps
make the school feel even more like a family.
Maintenance Employee of the Year- Timmy Burnette
Timmy is known throughout the district not only for his work ethic and expertise, but also for
the genuine kindness he shows to everyone around him. Whether he is solving a problem,
leading his team, or helping a colleague, Timmy approaches every task with a servant’s heart.
His willingness to share his knowledge and mentor others has made a lasting impact on those
who work alongside him. Many describe him as the kind of person you can always count on,
someone who makes others feel valued, supported, and appreciated. The respect and
admiration he has earned from his coworkers speak volumes about the person he is and the
leader he has become. His positive influence has made him truly deserving of this recognition.
Office Support Employee of the Year- Elsie Buchanan (Exceptional Children’s Department)
Elsie consistently goes above and beyond her role as office support and data manager,
providing essential assistance to teachers, teaching assistants, therapists, and administrators
with efficiency, professionalism, and a positive attitude. Her work ethic and heart are evident in
everything she does. Elsie is always willing to step in wherever she is needed—whether
organizing beginning-of-the-year events, coordinating daily department needs, or supporting
the planning and execution of the county Special Olympics. Her behind-the-scenes efforts are
vital to the success of these major events and the smooth operation of the Exceptional
Children’s department. What truly sets Elise apart is her deep compassion for the students she
serves. She takes a sincere interest in understanding their individual needs and is committed to
ensuring they receive the highest level of support possible. Dependable, dedicated, and
respected by her colleagues, Elsie is an invaluable member of the Exceptional Children’s team.
Teacher Assistant of the Year- Leyton Penland (Tuscola High School)
Leyton consistently exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated employee, mentor, and role
model at Tuscola High School, making a meaningful and lasting impact on both students and
staff. He is known for being reliable and dependable, always going above and beyond to
support, encourage, and care for students, especially OCS students. His patience, compassion,
and professionalism are evident in every interaction, and students are naturally drawn to him
because of his genuine concern for their success and well-being. Mr. Penland is also a strong
team player who collaborates effectively with colleagues and proactively steps in wherever
support is needed. He leads by example through his positive attitude, integrity, and unwavering
commitment to doing what is right, never complaining and always maintaining an uplifting
presence. His moral character, kindness, and professionalism set a standard for others to
follow.
Transportation Employee of the Year- Caroll Ray Brown
Caroll is a valued member of the Haywood County Schools Transportation Department. He
plays a vital role in ensuring that each bus is fueled and ready to safely transport students each
morning, in ALL weather conditions. Caroll takes great pride in his work, and it is clearly
reflected in the exceptional care he puts into his responsibilities-including maintaining what is
often noted as the cleanest fuel truck in North Carolina. His commitment to excellence and
reliability helps keep our transportation system running smoothly every day. Beyond his
outstanding work ethic, Caroll brings laughter to those around him. His storytelling ability has a
way of brightening any day and lifting the spirits of his coworkers. We are grateful for his
dedication, professionalism, and the joy he brings to our team.
Congratulations to each of our 2025-2026 Employees of the Year. While their roles may differ,
they share a common commitment to serving students and supporting the mission of Haywood
County Schools. Their dedication, professionalism, and willingness to go above and beyond help
ensure that our schools remain places where students can thrive.
Thank you for all you do to make Haywood County Schools the Best in the West.
