2026 Employee Excellence Awards
Certified Employees of the Year
Alcoa Elementary
Hollie Beeler
When we talk about dedication, compassion, and excellence in teaching, one name comes up again and again, and that’s Hollie Beeler. Mrs. Beeler is more than just a teacher; she is a mentor, a teammate, and a friend to everyone who knows her. One of her colleagues shared that she has been “the best mentor and friend I could have asked for”. She is always willing to stay late, answer questions, and guide others through any questions or challenges they might have. That kind of support makes a lasting difference—not just for teachers, but ultimately for the students we all serve. What truly sets Hollie apart is her unwavering commitment to all AES students. She goes out of her way to make sure every child feels included, valued, and seen. She is a strong advocate, especially for students with exceptionalities, always working to ensure they receive the support and opportunities they deserve. Her belief is simple but powerful: every child matters.
Mrs. Beeler’s impact doesn’t stop in her classroom either. She is an incredible collaborator on the kindergarten team, who communicates openly, lifts up her colleagues, and steps in whenever someone needs help. She mentors new teachers, shares her knowledge generously, and contributes to a positive and supportive school culture. Simply put—she makes everyone around her better. Her passion for her students is undeniable. She goes above and beyond to ensure not only their academic success, but also their well-being. She builds meaningful connections with her students and their families, creating a sense of trust and belonging that lasts far beyond the school year. And through it all, she does it with a smile. In the words of one of her coworkers: “She’s amazing!” And sometimes, that says it best.
Mrs. Beeler is a teacher who leads with heart, who serves with purpose, and who inspires everyone around her. Your dedication, kindness, and tireless efforts do not go unnoticed. You are truly deserving of this honor.
Alcoa Intermediate
Amy Gamble
Amy Gamble exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an educator. She has an extraordinary ability to make every student feel seen, valued, and connected the moment they walk into her classroom. Through strong relationships, encouragement, classroom engagement, and high expectations, Amy creates a safe and supportive and fun learning environment where students feel confident taking risks and growing both academically and emotionally. Mrs. Gamble is a reflective and innovative teacher who continually redesigns lessons to meet the needs of her students. She thoughtfully develops engaging strategies that meet students where they are and challenge them to reach their full potential. Her dedication to strengthening students’ writing and vocabulary skills has led to noticeable growth in both their confidence and ability.
Beyond academics, Mrs Gamble builds a classroom culture where students take ownership of their learning and believe in themselves. Her creativity, positivity, and commitment to each child’s success make learning meaningful and joyful. She is also a trusted mentor, supportive colleague, and leader within the school community. Through her passion, relationships, and unwavering dedication to students, Mrs. Gamble makes a lasting impact on the lives of her students and the culture of Alcoa Intermediate School. She is truly deserving and we are so proud to celebrate her as AIS Teacher of the Year.
Alcoa Middle
Crystel Smith
We are proud to recognize and celebrate Ms. Crystel Smith as the 2025-2026 Alcoa Middle School Teacher of the Year. Ms. Smith has faithfully served the Alcoa Middle School students and community for almost 26 years. During this time, Ms. Smith has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure her students not only understand mathematical concepts but also build confidence in their abilities. You can ask any person in the AMS building; no one outworks Ms. Smith. She spends countless hours preparing and striving to improve her practice. Ms. Smith is the first car in the parking lot and the last one to leave. Walking into her classroom, it is a place where high expectations, engaging instruction, and meaningful relationships come together to create a powerful learning environment.
Ms. Smith fosters a classroom culture where mistakes are embraced as part of the learning process, encouraging resilience, and challenging students to meet her high mathematical expectations. Her ability to connect with students and make math both accessible and meaningful sets her apart as an exceptional educator. Her commitment to excellence, her unwavering dedication to her students, and the lasting impact she makes each day truly make her deserving of this honor. Congratulations Ms. Smith on being named the 2025-2026 Alcoa Middle School Teacher of the Year.
Alcoa High
Carrie Hall
Carrie Hall has been a part of the Alcoa City Schools team since 2017. She earned both her undergraduate and Master’s degrees in Special Education at the University of Tennessee, with a focus on Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. She later went on to complete her EdS in Leadership at LMU. Her career began with seven years of work in Atlanta and Nashville, where she taught deaf and hard-of-hearing students and coached soccer at both the middle and high school levels. After a seven-year break from education to be at home with her children, during which she continued to work as a sign language interpreter, she returned to the classroom in 2017.
Since joining the staff at Alcoa High School, she has taken on a variety of roles. She currently serves as the Special Education department head, teaches mathematics, and assists with the operations of the soccer team, where she has earned the titles of "Coach" and the "Byrd Handler." Outside of work, she enjoys time with her husband, Justin, her two kids, Caroline and Ian, and their dog, Buddy. We are incredibly fortunate to have her experience and leadership in our school, and we appreciate all that she does for our students and staff.
Classified Employees of the Year
Alcoa Elementary
Katie Naughton
When we asked our staff for nominations for our staff member of the year, Katie received an overwhelming number of responses, simply singing her praises. When I think about Katie, one word comes up over and over, and that word is: intentional. She approaches every task with purpose, always keeping what’s best for our students and staff at the center of her work. That kind of care doesn’t go unnoticed and it helps shape the culture of our school in such meaningful ways. Katie is truly an incredible asset to the first grade team and to everyone lucky enough to work alongside her. The way she shows love and support to both teachers and students is something special. No matter what she’s doing, she goes the extra mile—and somehow always with a smile on her face. She’s also the kind of person you can count on, no matter how busy things get.
Katie is always willing to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or simply brighten someone’s day with uplifting words and her calm, positive presence. There’s a genuine warmth about her that makes people feel comfortable and valued. Even in the middle of a full day, she’ll pause to ask, “Do you need anything?” That simple question speaks volumes about who she is. Katie’s kindness, dedication, and heart for others make a lasting impact on our school community and we are incredibly lucky to have her.
Alcoa Intermediate
Tim Russell
Tim Russell is a valued member of the Alcoa Intermediate School family whose positive spirit and servant leadership make a daily impact on our entire school community. No matter what the day brings, Tim is always ready to help with a smile. His kindness, reliability, and willingness to step in wherever he is needed make him someone that both students and staff deeply trust and appreciate. Mr. Russell builds genuine relationships with students and takes pride in creating a welcoming environment for everyone in the building. Students often share that he is more than just a custodian to them. They see him as someone who cares, listens, and is always willing to help. His friendly demeanor, encouragement, and constant smile make students feel valued and supported throughout the school day. A student shared, "He is more than just a custodian. He is so nice! He would do anything for us. I love that he is always smiling and will help us at lunch or with anything we need. We LOVE Mr. Tim!"
Among staff, Mr. Russell is known as someone you can always count on. He consistently puts the needs of others before his own and responds quickly to help with both the big and small things that keep a school running smoothly. His leadership within the custodial team sets a tone of teamwork, pride, and excellence, and his positive attitude is contagious. Mr. Russell’s dedication, humility, and heart for serving others make Alcoa Intermediate a better place for students and staff every day. His impact reaches far beyond his role. AIS is so thankful for him and excited to name him our Staff Member of the Year!
Alcoa Middle
Ashley Fipps
We are excited to announce that Ms. Ashley Fipps has been selected as the 2025-2026 Alcoa Middle School Staff Member of the Year. Each day, Nurse Ashley serves as a vital part of our school community, providing compassionate care and ensuring the health and well-being of every student at Alcoa Middle School. On a day-to-day basis, she is constantly in motion—monitoring student health concerns, administering medications, assessing symptoms, and making important decisions about when students can remain in school or need additional care. She approaches every situation with professionalism, calmness, and genuine care.
Beyond the continuous band-aids, cough drops, and tylenol, Nurse Ashley plays an essential role in promoting a safe and healthy school environment. She has a unique ability to calm anxious students, offer encouragement during tough moments, and build trusting relationships that extend far beyond the clinic. She is a steady, dependable presence who supports both the physical and emotional well-being of our school community. Her impact on our school and community make her a perfect candidate to be named our 2025-2026 Alcoa Middle School Staff Member of the Year. Congratulations, Nurse Ashley.
Alcoa High
Josh Stephens
Josh Stephens has been a dedicated member of Alcoa City Schools since 2003. He began his career as a Wellness teacher from 2003 to 2005, while also coaching golf and boys basketball. Josh has served as Athletic Director for the past 20 years, demonstrating strong leadership and a commitment to student-athlete success. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Tennessee Wesleyan University, and later obtained both a Master’s degree and an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Administration and Supervision from Lincoln Memorial University.
In 2025, Josh earned his Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) designation through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. His excellence in the field has been recognized twice with Athletic Director of the Year honors from the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association. Josh and his wife, Lisa, have been married for 16 years and are proud parents of two children, Rylee and Mason. It is a privilege to work alongside Josh each day, and we are extremely fortunate to have him leading our athletic department.
Educator Support Center
Emilee Starling
When you hear the phrase “Once a Tornado, Always a Tornado,” Mrs. Emilee Starling immediately comes to mind. A proud Alcoa Tornado since her preschool days, Emilee now serves the Alcoa Schools community through the Educator Support Center. While many may not see her face-to-face every day, she works quietly behind the scenes, managing complex challenges in student data, accountability, and state reporting for our district. While this is no easy task and most of us would run from it, Emilee has a special gift and sees these opportunities as fun.
One could also say that ‘Emilee is worth millions’ because she helps ensure the school district receives its full funding each year. Her friends and peers affectionately call her “the Geek,” a nickname earned for her remarkable ability to diagnose and fix nearly anything. Ask anyone who works with her, and they’ll tell you she’s always smiling, has a witty sense of humor, and is most likely fresh off a weekend Jeep adventure. Alcoa City Schools and the Educator Support Center are truly fortunate to have “the Geek” on our team. Congratulations to Emilee Starling on being named ESC Staff Member of the Year!
Alcoa City Schools Substitute Teacher of the Year
Alcoa City Schools
Tiffany Hanekamp
This is her first school year working for ESS in Alcoa City Schools. She has worked 105 days this school year and works across all 4 schools. Her dedication and impact have been exceptional, and teachers are now specifically
requesting her. One school shared: “She is 100% a part of our school family! She is such a reliable substitute in our building; someone that our staff never hesitates to reach out to in a time of need. She never hesitates to reach out in times of need. She can be seen all over our building and is always willing to fill any gap an absence may create. What truly stands out is her willingness to jump right in and teach from sub plans just like a veteran teacher. We could not imagine our school year without her. No one is more deserving of this honor, and we’re so glad she chose to sub this year!” Congratulations, Tiffany!
