FCS Celebrates 5th Annual Frankies with a Night on the Red Carpet

Franklin County Schools celebrated the 5th Annual Frankies on Friday, June 5, with a red-carpet evening honoring outstanding employees, volunteers, school leaders, and community partners who make a lasting difference across the district.

The Frankies, Franklin County Schools’ signature employee recognition ceremony, was created to celebrate excellence in public education and recognize the people whose service, leadership, and dedication help students thrive. Over the past five years, the event has grown into one of the district’s most anticipated traditions and has served as a model for employee recognition beyond Franklin County.

This year’s “Night on the Red Carpet” brought together educators, support staff, administrators, school resource officers, volunteers, and community partners for an evening of celebration and appreciation.

2026 Frankie Award Winners

Amanda Unklesbay – Teacher of the Year
Regina Harris – Classified Employee of the Year
Chris Cullom – Principal of the Year
Trenace Gilmore – Assistant Principal of the Year
Austin Tolbert – Beginning Teacher of the Year
Jessica Liberatos – Outstanding Math Teacher
Heather Griffin – Exceptional Children Educator of Excellence
Billy Longson – NCCAT CTE Teacher of the Year
June Lewis III – Diane Marks Excellence in Service Award
Tara Smith – Dianne Massey-Carter Award
LaTisha Hitchcock – David Averette Community Service Award
Deputy Nash McKinney – SRO of the Year
Bunn Elementary School – Auxiliary Services Award

Franklin County Schools congratulates all of this year’s winners and nominees. Their commitment to excellence reflects the heart of FCS and the district’s continued focus on empowering students for success.

The Frankies serves as a reminder that strong schools are built by exceptional people, and Franklin County Schools is proud to celebrate those who serve students, families, and communities each day.