Houston County School District names Teacher of the Year at opening session

Walker, now in her 10th year of teaching, says she wants every student entering her classroom to feel supported.

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Thousands of educators filled Southside Baptist Church in Houston County Tuesday for the school district’s opening session, where leaders highlighted their goals for the year.

Superintendent Dr. Richard Rogers spoke about the district’s continued focus on growth, building on last year’s theme.

“Last year was together we can… but now it’s together we will… we got the ball rolling on relationships and innovation last year, and it’s time to continue that,” said Rogers.

District leaders reflected on the past year and looked ahead to the upcoming school year.

“Our number one focus is relationships, and right behind that is innovation,” Rogers said. “That’s what makes Houston County so special. We’re gonna take care of students academically, but what makes us unique is the relationships we build and the innovation we’re gonna do to take care of our students.”

Teacher of the Year Named

Among the biggest moments of the morning was the announcement of the 2026-2027 Houston County Teacher of the Year.

Brianna Walker, a visual arts teacher at Perry High School, was named Teacher of the Year. Walker said winning the title was something she did not expect.

“I’m so happy to be able to represent all the fine arts teachers here in Houston County as well as representing my school, but I love being able to share the importance that the fine arts have here and how it helps bring our students into the school building and helps keep them in school,” Walker said.

Walker, now in her 10th year of teaching, said her goal is to make sure every student who enters her classroom feels supported.