Difference Makers

Raleigh County Schools is pleased to announce that it is now accepting nominations for its Difference Makers class of 2026. This program, in its second year, is a celebration of individuals that are positively impacting Raleigh County Schools and are, as the name suggests, making a difference.

The nominated Difference Maker will be recognized at a Board of Education meeting the following month.

You may nominate someone by scanning the QR code to the right or clicking the QR image to be directed to the entry form for this month. There is also a link below the QR code to the same form.

QR Code to Nominate a difference maker for Raleigh County Schools

2025-2026 School Year

Congratulations to Woodrow Wilson High School science teacher Brandon Peters who was recognized as a Difference Maker last night. Mr. Peters was nominated by one of his students

January, 2026

Brandon Peters

Biology Teacher
Woodrow Wilson High School

Nominated by: Ayzla Holt, Student

December, 2025

Shannon Wilkerson
2nd and 3rd Grade Teacher
Stanaford Elementary School

Nominated by: Mackayla Jones, Parent

Congratulations to Independence High School math teacher Chad Perkins who was recognized as a Difference Maker last night. Mr. Perkins was nominated by one of his students. Thank you, Mr. Perkins for all you do and your commitment to your students.

November, 2025

Chad Perkins

Math Teacher
Independence High School

Nominated by: Addison Hamilton, Student

October, 2025

Elizabeth Hegele

Math Teacher
Shady Spring High School

Nominated by: Colton Henderson, Graduate

Jonathan Lane, Kindergarten teacher at Beckley Elementary—where “making a difference one student at a time” isn’t just a phrase, it’s his daily practice.

September, 2025

Jonathan Lane

Kindergarten Teacher
Beckley Elementary School

Nominated by: Casey Treadway, Parent

2024-2025 School Year

Congratulations to Jamie Bailey, principal at Liberty High School, for being named the first Difference Maker for the Class of 2025!🎉 As part of the inaugural year of this program, we are celebrating individuals who are positively impacting Raleigh County Schools and truly making a difference. Jamie, your dedication and commitment to our students and community are inspiring! Keep up the amazing work, and thank you for all you do. Here’s to continuing to make a difference together!

September, 2024

Jamie Bailey, Principal
Liberty High School

Difference Maker for October 2024, Monica Tinney

October, 2024

Mrs. Monica Tinney, Special Education Teacher
Shady Spring Elementary School

Nominated by: Lauren Crook, Parent

Raleigh County Schools is thrilled to honor Holly Kincaid as the November 2024 Difference Maker Award recipient! 🎉 Holly’s dedication and unwavering commitment to positively impacting our schools have made her an exceptional role model and a true advocate for student success. Her passion, kindness, and tireless efforts are an inspiration to us all.

November, 2024

Holly Kincaid, Art Teacher
Park Middle School

Nominated by: Malati Reeve, Colleague

Theresa Martin is more than just a driver—she’s a daily source of kindness, patience, and encouragement.

January, 2025

Theresa Martin, Bus Operator

Nominated by: Elizabeth Lambert, Colleague

Congratulations to Ashley Kelly from Cranberry School for being nominated as a Raleigh County Schools Difference Maker! Your dedication and positive impact on students and staff have not gone unnoticed. Thank you for making a difference every day!

March, 2025

Ashley Kelly (Smith), 4th Grade Teacher
Cranberry-Prosperity Elementary School

Nominated by: Kateland Daniel, Colleague and Sister

Raleigh County Schools proudly recognizes Valerie Bostick, 7th grade math teacher at Beckley-Stratton Middle, as a 2025 Difference Maker! Her dedication, leadership, and passion for students truly make a lasting impact.

April, 2025

Valerie Bostick, 7th Grade Math Teacher
Beckley-Stratton Middle School

Nominated by: Allison Adkins, Colleague