Top Honors Awarded at Germantown Education Celebration

Story by The City of Germantown

Teacher of the Year
LeeAnn Bailey of Riverdale School was named the 2026 Teacher of the Year, the Commission’s highest honor for educators. Bailey was recognized for her ability to create a classroom environment where every student feels valued, supported and inspired to succeed.

Known for her engaging teaching style and strong relationships with students, Bailey fosters both academic growth and confidence in her classroom. She also serves as a fifth-grade Professional Learning Community leader, helps guide student council and coordinates the BizTown program. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom through schoolwide events that promote literacy and family engagement.

Bailey holds advanced degrees in curriculum and instruction and reading and remains deeply committed to both her students and the broader community.

New Teacher of the Year
Stephen Summy of Houston High School was named the 2026 New Teacher of the Year, an honor recognizing an outstanding educator in their first year of teaching.

Despite entering the profession without a traditional background in education, Summy has quickly distinguished himself through innovation and dedication to student success. He has expanded opportunities for his students by introducing dual enrollment engineering courses and enabling them to earn industry-recognized credentials.

Summy also actively connects students with real-world learning experiences through partnerships with higher education and industry, while maintaining strong communication with families and mentoring students both inside and outside the classroom.

A Celebration of Excellence
The annual Education Celebration highlights the Germantown Education Commission’s ongoing commitment to recognizing excellence in education. The Commission, a 15-member advisory body appointed by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, honors outstanding students and educators throughout the year.