Bibb County School District celebrates Teachers of the Year

Kimberly Barton was recognized as the Bibb County School District’s Teacher of the Year.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Bibb County School District celebrated its Teachers of the Year Monday night at the Grand Opera House in downtown Macon.

This year’s District Teacher of the Year, Kimberly Barton, teaches fourth grade at Vineville Academy of the Arts. Barton says she’s honored to have been chosen and wants other teachers to know it’s all about leading with love.

“Every day, lead with love,” she said. “Go into your classrooms with passion and compassion, and the rest will take care of itself. I didn’t do this to become teacher of the year; I just love my students, and I love what I do, so I’m truly blessed.”

Monday’s celebration included a catered dinner by students and faculty from W.S. Hutchings College and Career Academy, remarks by Superintendent Dr. Dan Sims and gifts for all of the Teacher of the Year finalists.

Barton was joined as a finalist by Kasaundra Kirkland of Heard Elementary School, Suneetha Panda of Northeast High School, Brittany Gonzales of Rutland High School and Mitzi Heath of VIP Academy.