The Hinds County School District recognized educators, parents, staff, administrators, and student-athletes during the January school board meeting, highlighting individuals and teams whose work and achievements reflect excellence across the district.
During the meeting, HCSD announced the district’s 2025–2026 People of the Year, honoring individuals at both the school and district levels for their dedication to students, families, and school communities. Staff members were also recognized for exceptional service in key operational areas, and district basketball teams were honored for their success in CMAC Championship competition.
School-Level People of the Year
Bolton Elementary Middle
Teacher of the Year: Lakisha Rimmer
Parent of the Year: Cornnel Norman
Byram Middle
Teacher of the Year: Cecila Parker
Parent of the Year: Eric Lollis
Career Tech Center
Teacher of the Year: Lovechia Harrison
Gary Road Elementary
Teacher of the Year: Kenesha Taylor
Parent of the Year: Alexus Beale
Gary Road Intermediate
Teacher of the Year: Lakendra Wright
Parent of the Year: Renita Bonds
Mainstreet Restart Center
Teacher of the Year: April Coleman
Raymond Elementary / Carver Middle
Teacher of the Year: Christi Dunn
Parent of the Year: Arione Palmer
Raymond High School
Teacher of the Year: Martavin McWilliams
Parent of the Year: Alphonso Hunter
Terry High School
Teacher of the Year: Ebony Martin
Parent of the Year: Karen Austin
Utica Elementary Middle
Teacher of the Year: YosheeYaw Bogan
Parent of the Year: Kyesha Davis
District-Level People of the Year and Staff Recognition
Administrator of the Year: Charles Willis, Raymond High School
Novice Principal of the Year: Ashley White, Gary Road Intermediate
Assistant Principal of the Year: Nicole Henderson, Gary Road Intermediate
Teacher of the Year: Christi Dunn, Raymond Elementary / Carver Middle
Assistant Teacher of the Year: Joneka Cooper, Gary Road Intermediate
Counselor of the Year: Shenecia Bush, Gary Road Intermediate
Administrative Assistant of the Year: Peggy Dismuke, Raymond Elementary / Carver Middle
Parent of the Year: Kenesha Taylor, Gary Road Elementary
Staff members recognized for exceptional work include Metric Thompson (Maintenance), Anastasia McGowan (Child Nutrition, Gary Road Intermediate), Lisa Draper (Child Nutrition, Bolton-Edwards Elementary Middle), and Johnny Maynor (Durham Transportation).
Athletic Achievements Recognized
HCSD also recognized student-athletes for their accomplishments during the basketball season. The Bolton-Edwards Lady Rangers earned second place at the CMAC Championship, while the Utica Rangers basketball teams captured the 2025–2026 CMAC Championship title.
District leaders noted that the recognitions reflect the collective efforts of students, staff, families, coaches, and administrators across the district. The Hinds County School District congratulates all honorees and championship teams and thanks them for their continued service and commitment to excellence.