WV Dept. of Ed Announces 2026 School Service Personnel of the Year Finalists
Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) is pleased to announce five finalists for the 2026 West Virginia School Service Personnel of the Year (SPOY) award. Finalists are chosen from classroom aides, bus operators, cafeteria workers, custodians, maintenance workers, office workers and other school service personnel for outstanding contributions to their school and community.
The West Virginia Board of Education established this annual awards program in 2020 as a parallel program to the Teacher of the Year program. Since then, counties have included SPOYs as a part of their annual employee recognition activities.
State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt"Service personnel are essential to the success of our students and our schools. They often serve in a number of roles to make sure students are cared for and thrive in the school setting."
2026 Finalists
Ivy Alonso
Ivy Alonso is a special education aide at Johnson Elementary School in Harrison County. Known for her patience, creativity and deep empathy, she supports students with significant needs, including non-verbal autism and Rett Syndrome. She demonstrates this by carrying a red backpack filled with calming tools that help make each student's learning experience more impactful. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom as she provides respite care and attends student events. Her colleagues describe her as the constant in every storm and someone who is an irreplaceable part of the school community.
Haley Cummins
Haley Cummins is a special education classroom and bus aide at Marlinton Middle School in Pocahontas County. Certified as an early childhood classroom assistant teacher who is actively pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education, Cummins consistently goes beyond her assigned duties to support students and staff. Her contributions include developing a school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports system, designing small-group instructional lessons and fostering a positive and welcoming school culture through strong relationships with students, families and colleagues. Cummins is known for her problem-solving skills, adaptability and unwavering commitment to student success. Whether assisting struggling readers, supporting classroom instruction or stepping into roles beyond her job description, she acts with purpose and integrity.
Kristi Damron
Kristi Damron currently serves as the financial secretary at Scott Teays Elementary School in Putnam County. Her integrity, professionalism and unwavering commitment to her school community have earned her much respect from peers. She consistently earns excellent audit reviews and is recognized for her organizational skills, procedural knowledge and leadership in mentoring new financial secretaries. Damron greets each student by name, offers them emotional support and willingly steps in wherever she is needed. Whether filling in for custodial staff, maintaining school grounds, assisting families or volunteering as the school mascot, she serves with humility and joy. In October 2023, her swift action saved the life of a student in cardiac arrest, earning her the prestigious Zoll Hero for Life Award. Her lifelong commitment to service defines her as a truly exceptional member of the educational workforce.
Brandon Kelley
Brandon Kelley is a dedicated custodian at Washington District Elementary School in Upshur County, where he exemplifies excellence in service, professionalism and integrity. Known for his outstanding work ethic and commitment to maintaining a clean and nurturing learning environment, Kelley plays an important role in daily school operations and the long-term success of students. Beyond his custodial responsibilities, he serves as a student mentor and a dependable colleague to co-workers. He contributes to school and district-wide improvement through his participation in the Superintendent’s Advisory Council and the Staff Development Council. Kelley's compassion and dedication make him a valued member of the Washington District Elementary community.
Keith Wright
Keith Wright is a respected custodian at John Marshall High School in Marshall County. He contributes to daily operations and school culture through his service-focused work ethic. Wright ensures students and staff have a clean, safe environment while also assisting with maintenance and training new custodians on equipment and procedures. His attention to detail attracts recognition, including praise from a national speaker for maintaining the cleanest restrooms encountered during her travels. Beloved by students and admired by staff, Wright exemplifies servant leadership, integrity and school pride. His presence raises the standard of excellence at John Marshall High School, making him an outstanding representative of school service personnel.
The WVDE will honor the finalists and name the 2026 School Service Personnel of the Year during a ceremony at the West Virginia Culture Center on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.
Learn more by visiting Service Personnel of the Year page.