WV Dept. of Ed. Announces Upshur County Custodian as 2026 School Service Personnel of the Year
Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Board of Education (WVBE) and the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) announced Brandon Kelley from Upshur County as the 2026 West Virginia School Service Personnel of the Year (SPOY) during the Celebration of Excellence in Education event at the Culture Center in Charleston Tuesday evening. WVBE Member Debra Sullivan, State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt and a host of education leaders were present for the announcement.
Kelley is a dedicated custodian at Washington District Elementary School, 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.
"Mr. Kelley demonstrates why school service personnel are essential parts of our school communities. He is recognized as an effective role model for staff and students, and he eagerly serves others with humility," said Superintendent Blatt. "His title is custodian, but his voice represents his peers and others with his service on various councils in the county. Mr. Kelley embodies what it means to be an ambassador for our state."
Sponsor support of the SPOY program has elevated it to greater levels of success and effectiveness. The 2026 sponsors include:
| Sponsor | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Highmark West Virginia | $2,500 |
| Horace Mann | $2,500 |
| West Virginia Lottery | $500 grant |
| West Virginia Tourism | Two-night stay at a West Virginia State Park |
| Education West Virginia | $500 |
| West Virginia School Service Personnel Association | $500 |
| Tony the Tailor | $250 gift card |
| Blenko Glass | Commemorative handcrafted coin to all county winners |
Kelley's tenure as the 2026 School Service Personnel of the Year begins January 1, 2026. To learn more by visiting the SPOY program page.
The 2026 West Virginia Teacher of the Year was also announced at the Celebration of Excellence in Education event.
View event photos in the WVDE Flickr Album.
Caption: Pictured (L-R): WVDE Deputy Superintendent Dr. Sonya White; State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt; WVBE Member Debra Sullivan; 2026 West Virginia School Service Personnel of the Year Brandon Kelley; and Upshur County Superintendent of Schools Christy Miller.