Congratulations to the ISD Teachers of the Year!

We are so incredibly proud to work alongside these outstanding individuals who embody the spirit and mission of the ISD. We deeply appreciate our students and our staff, and we are grateful for these talented, dedicated individuals.

Each district building/department selects their own Teacher of the Year. A panel of judges from the Independence community reads each of their stories and selects the District Teacher of the Year. All 29 of the honorees come together at a breakfast in celebration of their accomplishments, where the District Teacher of the Year is announced.

Nacole Benscoter, Special Education teacher at Three Trails Elementary School, was named the Independence School District’s 2025-2026 District Teacher of the Year.

Nacole was chosen for the honor by a panel of judges from the Independence Community. Nacole has been described as someone who goes the extra mile with unbelievable patience and creativity. She shows dedication, kindness and excellence everyday as she works to support her students, families and peers. Nacole’s dedication is inspiring!

Nacole Benscoter is one of 29 Teachers of the Year from across the district. Individual building winners are:

Abraham Mallinson Elementary School – Hannah Von Hagel

Blackburn Elementary School – Sarah Hart

Bryant Elementary School – Lindsey Giraldo

Cassell Park Elementary School – Tiffany Pruett

Christian Ott Elementary School – Raylene Alexander

Clifford H. Nowlin Middle School – Clint Godfrey

Fairmount Elementary School – Bridget Barry

George Caleb Bingham Middle School – Samala Robinson

Glendale Elementary School – Jessica Teevan

Hanthorn – Sarah Harraman

Independence Academy – Megan Fansher