Fayetteville Board honors Teacher of the Year, classified employee and multiple student award winners

The Fayetteville Board of Education presented several end-of-year recognitions at its May 28 meeting, naming Ramey Junior High choir teacher Chris Michaels as the district’s 2026 Teacher of the Year and awarding Cheyenne Daley the district’s 2026 Classified Employee of the Year.

Board members read citations praising Michaels for “harmonizing rigorous academic standards with vibrant inclusive culture” and for choirs that “consistently earn superior ratings at competitions,” and highlighted Daley’s special-education work, willingness to step into teaching roles and pursuit of a master’s degree in special education.

The board also recognized Fayetteville High School TV students and staff after a year of state and national awards, including individual honors for on‑air talent and production. Students who accepted awards introduced themselves for the board: Ross May, Drew Jesse, Tate Barnes and Logan Cowie each described their awards and next steps, and coach Gossett thanked students for sustaining a long run of excellence.

Woodland Junior High students and staff received multiple press, journalism and math contest honors and the school was redesignated as a "School to Watch." District leaders and the board presented certificates and encouraged continued student engagement in the programs.

The recognitions were part of the meeting’s opening agenda and drew applause and brief remarks from board members and school leaders. No formal board action was required beyond the presentations.

The board moved on to reports and business after the recognition segment concluded.