Jones Co. teacher with ‘fierce commitment’ named GA Teacher of the Year finalist

Jones County 2025 Teacher of the Year Charm Mapp has been named one of 10 finalists for the 2027 Georgia Teacher of the Year award.

Mapp, an eighth-grade math teacher at Clifton Ridge Middle School, “serves as a gifted lead teacher and supports the Jones County Virtual Academy,” the Georgia Department of Education said in a March 20 Facebook post.

“She is passionate about challenging students to embrace curiosity, confidence, and a love for learning through authentic mathematical thinking and the Gifted FIRE Project Showcase,” the department said.

Mapp was surprised March 20 by State Superintendent Richard Woods, who announced her finalist status during a visit to the school, according to district social media posts.

“With 23 years of inspiring students and a passion for meaningful, authentic learning, Mrs. Mapp truly represents the best of Jones County Schools,” Clifton Ridge Middle School shared on social media.

Chance Scott, principal of Clifton Ridge Middle, called Mapp the “the embodiment of excellence in education” and represents what happens when “passion, purpose and high expectations come together in a classroom.”

“For over twenty years, she has remained committed to one thing above all else: ensuring every student grows,” Scott said in an email March 31. “She has a rare ability to reach all learners, pushing them beyond what they believe they are capable of while supporting them through the productive struggle that leads to real success. She refuses to let students settle for ‘good’ when she knows they are capable of great.”

Scott also noted Mapp’s influence extends beyond her classroom, as she supports other teachers, leads professional learning and models instructional excellence, he said.

“While she has been encouraged to pursue formal leadership roles, Mrs. Mapp has remained in the classroom, because teaching children is her passion,” Scott said. “At the same time, she continues to develop those around her, strengthening both instruction and culture through her actions.”

Mapp is currently pursuing a doctorate in curriculum and instruction, according to the GaDOE. She could not be reached prior to publication.

Along with the nine other finalists, Mapp will participate in interviews and deliver speeches before a panel of judges, who will select the 2027 Georgia Teacher of the Year. The winner will be announced in May.

Here are the other finalists:

• Victor Fordham, Metter High School in Candler County
• Ashleigh Kenny, Pine Grove Middle School in Lowndes County
• Robert Stewart, Coffee Middle School in Coffee County
• Timothy Pritchett, Barnett Shoals Elementary School in Clarke County
• Katie Lessard, Puckett Mill Elementary School in Gwinnett County
• Kanesha Roberts, George Phineas Butler Comprehensive High School in Richmond County
• Lisa Pritchard Spence, Hasty Elementary Fine Arts Academy in Cherokee County
• Amanda Dillard, Pope High School in Cobb County
• Miranda Scott, Charles R. Drew High School in Clayton County.