Addison Hale-Benton, 4th Grade Math and Science teacher at Johnson Elementary School, has been named the district Teacher of the Year for Grades Pre-K–4. Currently in her fourth year of teaching, Hale-Benton is passionate about creating a positive and engaging learning environment where she focuses on fostering both academic growth and personal development in her students. Her growth mindset and data-driven approach is essential to her instruction. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from East Tennessee State University where she completed her year-long student teaching in the KAT (Kingsport Academy for Teachers) program at Johnson Elementary.

"Addison Hale-Benton exemplifies the passion, dedication, and excellence that define outstanding educators," said Johnson Elementary School Principal, Brett Herron. "Her ability to connect with young learners, foster a love of discovery, and create a nurturing environment is truly remarkable. Addison’s tireless efforts to inspire her students and her innovative approaches to teaching make a lasting impact not only on her classroom but on our entire school community. Her recognition as Kingsport City Schools Pre-K-4 Teacher of the Year is a well-deserved honor and a reflection of her unwavering commitment to our students and their success. We are incredibly proud to celebrate Addison as a shining example of the best in education and as an invaluable member of the Johnson Elementary School family."

Heather Bishop, 6th Grade Social Studies teacher at Robinson Middle School, has been named the district Teacher of the Year for Grades 5–8. Bishop began her teaching career in Kingsport City Schools as an instructional assistant at Sevier Middle School. She is currently in her 22nd year teaching 6th grade Social Studies at Robinson. Bishop has served in various leadership roles while at Robinson, including lead mentor for new teachers, technology leader, Social Studies teacher leader, 6th grade teacher leader, as well as a lead for the schools Guiding Coalition committee. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies 1-8 from East Tennessee State University and a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Tusculum University. 

"Heather Bishop is a phenomenal teacher," said Robinson Middle School Principal, Dr. Corey Gardenhour. "Her commitment to our students is witnessed daily and RNR is so pleased that she has been chosen as the Kingsport City Schools 5-8Teacher of the Year!"

Katie Kimbro, Special Education teacher at D-B EXCEL, has been named the district Teacher of the Year for Grades 9–12. Kimbro has 16 years of professional experience, including 12 years in special education with eight of those years being with Kingsport City Schools. Kimbro is celebrated for her dedication to inclusive, student-centered learning. In addition, she co-teaches Algebra I and English 9 and 10, fostering equitable, engaging classrooms. Kimbro has served on the D-B EXCEL Leadership team, contributed to securing the school’s STEM Redesignation, and co-developed Kingsport's Special Education Guidebook for Case Management. She has also been a FIRST TN Core Special Education teacher leader and an assistant dance coach at Robinson Middle School. Kimbro holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Michigan State University and a Master’s in Special Education from Western Carolina University. She will begin an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership at East Tennessee State University in 2025.

"Katie is an exceptional educator who embodies the spirit of relationship-building and collaboration," said D-B EXCEL Principal, Shanna Hensley. "She creates meaningful connections with students and colleagues alike, fostering a culture of trust and support. Her dedication to ensuring everyone has the tools and opportunities to succeed is inspiring. Katie’s commitment to excellence and her passion for empowering others make her a standout educator and leader in education and we are incredibly proud to celebrate her as Teacher of the Year."

In addition to the three district winners, 2025 individual building-level winners are:

Grades Pre-K–4

• Kristy Rowe, Palmer Early Learning Center
• Catie Little, Adams Elementary School
• Carla Casey, Jackson Elementary School
• Stephanie Rebuck Cox, Jefferson Elementary School
• Addison Hale-Benton, Johnson Elementary School
• Emily Quillen, Kennedy Elementary School
• Sarah Owens, Lincoln Elementary
• Rebecca Good, Roosevelt Elementary School

Grades 5–8

• Logan Burton, Washington Elementary School
• Heather Bishop, Robinson Middle School
• Jennifer Corbin, Robinson Middle School
• Angie Hensley, Robinson Middle School
• Stephaine Kilgore, Sevier Middle School
• Jesse McCormick, Sevier Middle School
• Julie Potts, Sevier Middle School

Grades 9–12

• Sherona Mims, Cora Cox Academy
• Katie Kimbro, D-B EXCEL
• Jimmy Burleson, Dobyns-Bennett High School
• Holly Fain, Dobyns-Bennett High School
• Cameron Phillips, Dobyns-Bennett High School
• Aaron Grouley, Dobyns-Bennett High School
• Olivia Guntrum, Dobyns-Bennett High School
• Brandon Reed, Dobyns-Bennett High School

Kingsport City Schools (KCS) is a public school district located in Kingsport, Tenn., serving students in Sullivan and Hawkins county. The district is comprised of 13 schools, including a Pre-K, eight elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, a high school program of choice, and an alternative learning program; with a total enrollment of over 7,400 students.