THOMASVILLE- Thomas County Schools proudly recognizes Holli Rossi, a kindergarten teacher at Hand-In-Hand Primary School, as the District Teacher of the Year for 2025-2026. Rossi has spent her entire 13-year career at Hand-In-Hand, where she is known for her unwavering dedication to her students, her school, and the profession of teaching.

Surrounded by friends, family, and coworkers during the surprise announcement, Rossi was left speechless—a rare moment for someone who pours so much heart into her work each day.

Rossi said, “I am speechless! I feel so honored and blessed to be given this opportunity to represent the Thomas County School System among many great educators. I am thankful to have been a part of this school system my whole life, from kindergarten through 12th grade, and now as a teacher. I want to continue the excellence of this great system for generations to come.”

Teaching isn’t just a job for Rossi; it’s who she is. She considers her role in the classroom to be both a calling and a mission. Her approach blends academic instruction with compassion, consistency, and a deep commitment to her students’ well-being.

“I truly believe God has equipped me to guide and inspire students in ways that go beyond academics,” she said. “Each day is an opportunity to be a light, to encourage them, and to show His love, patience, and grace.”

At the core of her teaching philosophy is the importance of relationships. Rossi is intentional about creating a classroom culture where students feel safe, valued, and understood.

“I work hard to build relationships with my students by showing genuine interest in who they are, both inside and outside the classroom,” she said. “That connection helps me provide personalized support when they need it most.”

Hand-In-Hand Principal Dee Gaines praised Rossi for her impact both in and out of the classroom.

“Holli has an incredible ability to connect with her students while maintaining high expectations,” Gaines said. “She creates a safe, nurturing classroom where children feel confident to take risks and grow both academically and emotionally.”

Gaines also commended Rossi’s leadership school-wide.

“Her passion for social emotional learning has shaped the culture of our school,” she added. “From leading our Conscious Discipline team to hosting our Morning Buzz news show, Holli brings a sense of family and support that truly sets her apart.”

In her classroom, Rossi embraces the responsibility of laying the foundation for her students’ educational journeys. She emphasizes character education and encourages habits of kindness, respect, and responsibility alongside academics.

“One of the most rewarding parts of being a teacher is seeing the growth and transformation in my students—both academically and personally,” she shared.

Instructional Coach Kylene VanHeiningen noted that Rossi’s classroom feels more like a community.

“Her students know they are safe, supported, and valued—and that gives them the confidence to grow and succeed,” VanHeiningen said. “She’s constantly coming up with new, engaging ways to reach her students, and she’s always willing to mentor others. Holli inspires not only her students, but her colleagues too.”

Colleagues describe Rossi as a natural leader whose support extends well beyond her own classroom. She mentors new and student teachers, participates in curriculum development, and contributes to her school’s overall mission.

Fellow teacher and friend Sally Thornton shared, “Holli truly embodies what a wonderful teacher and leader should be. Teaching is her calling, her mission, and the very heart of who she is. She helps create a feeling of community and family where, especially new teachers like me, feel like we are part of something bigger and not alone.”

Thomas County Schools Superintendent Dr. Lisa Williams praised Rossi for her profound impact on both students and staff, highlighting her as a model educator within the district.

“Mrs. Rossi exemplifies what it means to be a teacher-leader in every sense of the word,” said Dr. Williams. “Her classroom is a place where students feel seen, heard, and inspired to learn. She meets students where they are and helps them grow—academically, emotionally, and socially—while also uplifting her colleagues and shaping a positive school culture. We are incredibly proud to celebrate her as our District Teacher of the Year.”

Rossi desires to use her platform to deliver an honest but hopeful message to fellow educators: now, more than ever, we need each other.

“Some of the most impactful moments in my career came from simple acts of kindness,” Rossi said. “A veteran teacher guiding me through my first year. A teammate leaving me an encouraging note. Colleagues sharing resources and ideas. It reminded me—we’re never at our best alone.”

While student achievement remains a core focus, Rossi also highlights the importance of nurturing key character traits like motivation, self-confidence, empathy, innovation, and resilience.

“These are the roots,” she explained. “They’re just as important as academics because they support everything else we hope to achieve. But we can’t do it alone—we need all hands on deck: teachers, parents, leaders, and community members.”