Carrollton City Schools announced Lisa Hines to be the district-level Teacher of the Year. She was surprised on stage by her family and friends. Pictured from left are CCS Superintendent Dr. Mark Albertus, Angie Morris, Mary Helen Moody, Candace Ivey, Mackenzie Scott, Spencer Hines, Hunter Hines, CCS Teacher of the Year Lisa Hines, Tim Hines, Brooke Wade, Jay Wade, Ann Morgan, Davis Morgan, and CCS Board of Education Chairman David Godwin.

CARROLLTON, GA — Lisa Hines received the top honor as the Carrollton City Schools district Teacher of the Year for 2025-2026. The Carrollton Elementary School teacher was recognized along with the three other school-level recipients — Brittany Young, Carrollton Upper Elementary School; Amby Shoemake, Carrollton Middle School; and Shannon Bright, 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 for this year. From that pool of candidates, a district team reviewed applications and selected the District Teacher of the Year.

Dr. Albertus also noted the generosity of community sponsors that allowed each teacher to receive 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 beyond. He went on to announce Hines as the district winner.

“For more than two decades, Mrs. Hines poured her heart into her school, building a classroom culture rooted in love, growth and high expectations. From her early years as a paraprofessional to leading a classroom, she has shaped not only students—but teammates—through mentorship, example, and a belief in every child’s potential,” said Dr. Albertus. “She embodies the gold standard, and we are proud to celebrate her impact on our schools and community.”

Hines was surprised by her selection as her family joined her on the stage of the Mabry Center for the Arts during the convocation. This moment of celebration recognizes the dedication she has shown her students and colleagues over the years.

CES Principal Courtney Walker expressed her gratitude for Hines.

“Lisa Hines is an outstanding educator who inspires her colleagues as well as the next generation,” said Walker. “I am thankful for her dedication and for the support of our district, going above and beyond to honor the work of our teachers.”