KINGSPORT, Tenn. – Kingsport City Schools (KCS) has announced its 2026 District, Novice, and Building Teachers of the Year. KCS District Teachers of the Year include Megan Edmiston (Grades PreK–4), Karen Kitzmiller (Grades 5–8), and Brandon Reed (Grades 9–12).

Megan Edmiston, 3rd Grade Literacy teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School, has been named the district Teacher of the Year for Grades PreK–4. Currently in her eighth year of teaching, Edmiston is passionate about creating an equitable learning environment for all students. She ensures that every child has the opportunity to set and reach their personal and academic goals. Her wealth of experience in Title 1 schools helps her create a warm and safe learning environment for all students no matter their background. Edmiston holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from East Tennessee State University.

"Ms. Edmiston is a true professional who loves her students to the fullest," said Roosevelt Elementary School Principal Dr. Philip Wright. "She holds her students to the highest of expectations and they in turn strive to reach those expectations daily. Additionally, Megan is highly respected among her colleagues and peers for her positive attitude and infectious smile!"

Karen Kitzmiller, 5th Grade Math and Science teacher at Jefferson Elementary School, has been named the district Teacher of the Year for Grades 5–8. Now in her 15th year as a classroom teacher - 13 years at Jackson Elementary and the last two years at Jefferson Elementary School - Kitzmiller is deeply passionate about fostering student growth and learning both inside and outside the classroom. She employs a data-driven, student-centered approach to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed. Throughout her tenure with Kingsport City Schools, Kitzmiller has held multiple leadership roles, including math, science, and technology teacher leader. She has also coached Math Olympiad, FIRST Lego League, and Girls on the Run. Kitzmiller holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from East Tennessee State University and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Lincoln Memorial University.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate Mrs. Kitzmiller as District Teacher of the Year for Grades 5–8," said Jefferson Elementary Principal Dr. Stephanie Potter. “She is a dedicated and inspiring educator who brings exceptional energy and expertise to our school, consistently going above and beyond to elevate learning for all students. She pursues her own professional goals with the same determination she instills in her students, always pushing them to achieve more than they ever believed possible. We are honored to have her represent Jefferson Elementary.”

Brandon Reed, Mathematics teacher at Dobyns-Bennett High School, has been named the district Teacher of the Year for Grades 9–12. Reed is currently in his 24th year teaching, with the last 15 years teaching Algebra 1 and Geometry at Dobyns-Bennett High School. He has served in numerous leadership roles during his tenure, including co-leading the Algebra 1 team. Reed has also served as a mentor for new teachers and has been a student teacher mentor for numerous future Kingsport City Schools educators. Reed's classroom is built on the principles of hard work, perseverance, and maintaining a growth mindset. He currently co-teachers Algebra 1 in a special education classroom, where fostering academic and personal growth is a daily focus. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Reed serves as an assistant basketball coach and assistant athletic director for Dobyns-Bennett. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business and Management Accounting from Tusculum University, a Master's degree in Secondary Mathematics from Milligan University, and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Administration and Supervision from Lincoln Memorial University.

"Congratulations to Mr. Reed on this outstanding and well-deserved recognition," said Dobyns-Bennett High School Principal Dr. Brian Tate. "He is the embodiment of an exceptional educator. Both in the classroom and athletic arenas, Mr. Reed champions his students through every challenge and celebration, preparing them for future success. Brandon consistently makes it his priority to elevate his students first, and in doing so, he elevates the teaching and coaching profession. It is a genuine honor to call him a colleague, and we are grateful to have him at Dobyns-Bennett High School."