Samantha Phipps, who is a World Language teacher at Elkins High School, was selected as the county’s top teacher for this past school year. Brian Paugh, a custodian at Jennings Randolph Elementary School, was recognized as the best service employee in the county. 

Elkins High School Principal Carla Lambert said that Phipps, who teaches Spanish 1 through 5 at the school, is an inspiration to everyone at EHS.

“Samantha is a phenomenal teacher,” said Lambert. “It’s difficult to capture in words the full scope of her impact. She inspires not only her students, but all of us who are lucky enough to work alongside her. 

“She has really high expectations, yet her classroom remains a safe space for students who are encouraged to take risks, ask questions, and grow both intellectually and personally. She is so loved at this school.”

Submitted photo Elkins High School World Language teacher Samantha Phipps was recently named Randolph County Schools Teacher of the Year. Phipps, center, was joined by Dr. Shawn Dilly, right, and Cara Lambert at an award presentation ceremony.

Jennings Randolph Elementary School Principal Kelly Thompson said that, with everything Paugh does for the school, he was more than deserving of the award.

“Brian is awesome, anything I need done he’s there,” Thompson said. “He helps set up things for after school events and comes in early in the morning when we don’t have substitute teachers to help out. 

“He does clap out with our kids – when we have a class that gets an award, he will go around the building and lead the clap out, where we have the kids stand in the hall and clap and yell. He’s there to help out with whatever the school needs and the kids really like him. He’s definitely an asset to Jennings.”

Randolph County School Superintendent Dr. Shawn Dilly and Randolph County Schools directors presented the two winners with their awards during special assemblies held last week at their respective schools.

Dilly praised both award winners for their commitment to excellence, emphasizing the significant roles teachers and service staff play in fostering a supportive and effective learning environment.