FSD Names 2026 Teachers of the Year

The Franklin Special District has named four teachers as its 2026 Teachers of the Year, honoring their strong instructional practice, leadership within their school communities, and the meaningful relationships they build with students.

The district-level honorees are:

Katie Milliken, 1st-grade teacher at Johnson Elementary School

• Elementary Division Teacher of the Year

Leslie Smith, 8th-grade math teacher at Freedom Middle School

• Middle Division Teacher of the Year

Scottie Anne Murphy, 3rd-grade teacher at Johnson Elementary School

• Novice Teacher of the Year – Elementary Division (K–4)

Katie Gowisnock, 6th-grade math teacher at Freedom Intermediate School

• Novice Teacher of the Year – Middle Division (5–8)

District leaders praised the recipients for the distinct strengths they bring to their classrooms and schools.

“Our students feel the difference these teachers make every single day,” said Director of Schools Dr. David Snowden.  “Their creativity, care, and high expectations embody what families have come to expect from the Franklin Special District.”

All four educators will advance to the state-level competition, representing FSD among Tennessee’s exemplary teachers. The district will formally recognize these honorees, along with school-level award recipients, at a celebration later this spring.