Carrollton City Schools announced Karee Payne as the district-level Teacher of the Year. Pictured from left are CCS Superintendent Dr. Mark Albertus, CCS District Teacher of the Year Karee Payne, and CCS Board of Education Member Katie Williams (Treasurer, Ward Two).
Karee Payne received the top honor as the Carrollton City Schools district Teacher of the Year for 2026-2027. The Carrollton Upper Elementary School teacher was recognized along with the three other school-level recipients — Dr. Mandy Duffey, Carrollton Elementary School; Juanito Redwine, Carrollton Middle School; and Morganne Harper, Carrollton High School — at the district’s opening convocation on July 29.
At the end of May, each school announced its Teacher of the Year honoree. From that pool of nominees, a district team reviewed applications and selected the District Teacher of the Year.
Carrollton City Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Albertus also noted the community sponsors that generously provided each teacher with a monetary award. The sponsors were Carrollton Office Equipment, West Georgia Cornhole, and Smith, Wallis, and Scott Law Firm.
At the kickoff event, Dr. Albertus congratulated the recipients and thanked them for the impact they have in the classroom and Trojan Nation as a whole before announcing Payne as the district winner. He shared, “A champion for lifelong learning, this educator inspires confidence, builds meaningful relationships, and reminds us that true leadership is found in everyday acts of service.”
Payne was surprised by her family on the stage of the Mabry Center for the Arts, as they were welcomed with loud applause from faculty and staff in the audience. The inspiring moment celebrated her dedication to her students and colleagues over the years.
CUES Principal Tabitha Walker said she is grateful for Payne and her influence on their school.
“Mrs. Karee Payne is the type of educator you wish every student could experience. Her genuine care and ability to inspire others bring out the best in everyone around her,” said Walker. “She consistently goes above and beyond for her students while constantly lifting up her colleagues. She is exceptionally deserving of this honor, and it is a blessing to work alongside her.”
