Clay County Schools Celebrate Educators and Staff at Annual Retirement & Recognition Event

On a heartfelt evening at the Historic Clay County Courthouse & Beal Center, the Clay County Schools’ Board of Education and Leadership Team gathered to host their Annual Retirement & Recognition event, honoring educators and staff for their dedication to the students and community of Clay County. The event was a vibrant celebration filled with applause, laughter, and a few bittersweet tears as the district recognized outstanding achievements and bid farewell to retiring staff.

The evening spotlighted several individuals for their exceptional contributions to education. Among those celebrated were the Beginning Teacher Support Program Completers, Carly Anderson and Tori Canterbury, who have demonstrated remarkable promise in their early careers.

The event also recognized the Teachers of the Year from each school, individuals who have gone above and beyond in their classrooms:

• Delaney Smith, Hayesville Primary School (HPS)

• Dana Heidbreder, Hayesville Elementary School (HES)

• Kristin Taylor, Hayesville Middle School (HMS)

• Kim Chastainin, Hayesville High School (HHS)

In a special moment, Delaney Smith was announced as the 2025-2026 Clay County Schools District Teacher of the Year, a testament to her outstanding commitment to her students and the district.

Dawn Ledford was honored as the Teacher Assistant of the Year, recognized for her invaluable support in the classroom. Additionally, Krysta English from Hayesville Elementary School was named the EC Educator of Excellence, celebrated for her dedication to exceptional children.

The evening also served as a poignant farewell to four retiring staff members who have left an indelible mark on Clay County Schools:

• Judy Jennings, an Exceptional Children (EC) teacher at Hayesville High School, who served 7 years with the district and over 30 years as a North Carolina educator.

• Wilma West, an EC Teacher Assistant at Hayesville High School, who dedicated 23 years to the district.

• Lance Kelly, a custodian at Hayesville Primary School, who served for 10 years.

• Beth Leopard, an EC teacher at Hayesville Primary School, with 13 years of service.

The Clay County Schools community expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering commitment of these individuals. “Words cannot express the gratitude we have for each and every one of these individuals,” the district shared in a statement. “They have excelled in their professions and made immeasurable contributions to our schools, our district, our community, but most importantly, to the children they encounter every day they walk into one of our schools.”

The event underscored the profound impact educators and staff have on shaping the lives of students and strengthening the Clay County community. As the district celebrates these achievements and farewells, it looks forward to continuing its mission of fostering excellence in education.