Staff Members of the Year

Meet our TOTY SPOTY and POTY

2024-2025
Teacher of the Year:
Mary Jane Kessler
 
Grade Level or Position:
5th Grade Math Teacher
 
How long have you worked at Heard-Mixon?
I have taught 18 years in Newton County and 6 of those have been at Heard Mixon Elementary School.

What do you like best about working at Heard Mixon?
The best thing about working at Heard Mixon is the sense of family with both colleges, and parents and students.

What are your hobbies?
My hobbies include spending time with my family, caring for my pets, volunteering at church, and enjoying our pool!

Is there anything else that you would like us to know about you?
I LOVE my job!

2024-2025
Paraprofessional of the Year:
Rachel Pucko

Grade Level or Position:
Media Paraprofessional

How long have you worked at Heard-Mixon?
This will be my 4th year at HMES. 

What do you like best about working at Heard-Mixon?
 I like how everyone is like family and works together as one. 

What are your hobbies?
My hobbies are spending time with my gamily as much as possible. 
 
Is there anything else that you would like us to know about you?
I love my HMES family. 

2024-2025
Support Person of the Year:
Tanahia B. Benton


Grade Level or Position:
MTSS Specialist

How long have you worked at Heard-Mixon?
I have worked at Heard Mixon for 7 of my 22 years in the field of education. During my time at HMES, I have been an EIP teacher and a 4th grade teacher.

What do you like best about working at Heard Mixon?
I love the fact that HMES feels like a home away from home. Lifelong friendships are forged and memories are made here. My oldest daughter attended Heard-Mixon from 1st-5th grade and she is now a high school senior. My youngest daughter has been a Superstar since Pre-K and she is a rising 5th grader. Both girls were nurtured, loved, and educated in a loving and positive environment. I love being a part of the Heard-Mixon community because of the way we care for, nurture and educate our students.

What are your hobbies?
Writing, spending time outdoors, trying new recipes, and crafting

Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?
I love being a part of the Superstar family and I am grateful for this honor.