Although Robin O’Neal initially set her sights on becoming an accountant, her path shifted when she discovered her true passion—teaching math and inspiring students along the way.
O’Neal received the top honor as the Carrollton City Schools district Teacher of the Year for 2024-2025. The Carrollton Middle School teacher was recognized along with three other teachers—Rachel Phillips, Freddy Bennett, and Tim Hawig, Teachers of the Year at Carrollton Elementary, Carrollton Upper Elementary and Carrollton High School, respectively, at the Oct. 8 Carrollton Board of Education monthly meeting.
O’Neal, clearly surprised by her selection, was nearly speechless. In short remarks, she concluded, “What an honor to be up here with such dedicated and gifted educators. Thank you to my friends and family for being here and to all the teachers who have mentored me — I appreciate you.”
Last spring, each school announced this year’s representative. From that pool of candidates, a district team reviewed applications and observed the teachers in the classroom to select the District Teacher of the Year.
“All of these teachers are talented educators and we are fortunate they are part of our team,” said Dr. Mark Albertus, superintendent. “But we can only select one at the district level. Mrs. O’Neal will represent Carrollton City Schools very well.”
Dr. Albertus also noted the generosity of community sponsors that allowed each teacher to receive a monetary award. Sponsors were Carrollton Office Equipment, West Georgia Cornhole, and Smith, Wallis, and Scott Law Firm.
“Our community sponsors allow us to make this event even more special,” said Dr. Albertus. “We appreciate their commitment to our school system and supporting our teachers in this way.”
O’Neal’s mission extends beyond academic achievement; she wants her students to understand that questioning and striving for better ways of doing things is essential.
“I want them to know that they can do hard things,” she said. “We are on this journey together, and no one wants them to succeed more than I do.”
CMS Principal Eric Simmons expressed his gratitude for O’Neal when he introduced her at the meeting.
“Mrs. O’Neal, thank you for the positive impact that you have made at Carrollton Middle School,” said Simmons. “We’re excited to be able to honor you.”
