Newcastle Public Schools announced the 2025-26 school year Teacher of the Year on Thursday night from its previously announced Site Teachers of the Year.
Newcastle High School Special Education teacher Amy Sanders took the honors.
She was selected from among her peers which included Site Teachers of the Year Bryan Kauk of the Thrive Learning Collaborative, art teacher Kathy Cannon of Newcastle Middle School, first-grade teacher Julie Haskins of Newcastle Early Childhood Center, and fourth-grade teacher Alisha Hayes, Newcastle Elementary School.
In describing the evening’s festivities, Superintendent Dr. Cathy Walker said, “Tonight, we had the honor of recognizing the amazing educators who go above and beyond for our children at our annual Celebration of Excellence.”
After recognizing the Teacher of the Year and the Site Teachers of the Year, the school district noted its Site Rookie Teachers of the Year, and honored retiring teachers.
“Starting a career in education is a big journey, and these individuals have shown incredible heart and leadership in their first year,” Walker said.
Site Rookie Teachers of the Year are: Noah Simmons, NECC; Jessica Vo, NES; Tabitha Bosch, NMS; and Kaylee Glass, NHS (related photo inside this issue).
Walker said the school district also honors three extraordinary educators as they embark on their next great adventure — retirement. They are Toni Kammerlocher, Kathy Cannon, and Diane Watson (related photo inside this issue).
“Between them, they have decades of service, thousands of lives touched, and a lasting impact on Newcastle Public Schools,” Walker said. “Thank you for your wisdom, your patience, and your heart. You will be greatly missed, but we wish you nothing but the best in your retirement.”
