Southwire recently recognized 22 outstanding educators through its 2026 My Favorite Teacher Contest, awarding classroom grants to teachers across the communities it serves. The contest is part of Southwire’s annual Back to School initiative, which aims to help reduce barriers to learning by supporting students, families and educators. 

For more than two decades, Southwire has partnered with West Georgia Technical College to host the My Favorite Teacher Contest, celebrating educators who make lasting impacts on students’ lives. Supporting education is one of Southwire’s longstanding Giving Back priorities, and through the contest, the company helps provide resources that empower teachers and support student success. As Southwire’s community outreach efforts have expanded, the My Favorite Teacher Contest has grown alongside them, extending its reach to educators across the company’s footprint.

This year, students have submitted written and video nominations sharing how their favorite teachers have positively influenced their educational experiences. Many winning educators received multiple nominations from students who highlighted their dedication, encouragement and commitment to student success.

As part of the program, each winning teacher received a $1,000 classroom grant. Funds were awarded through the teachers’ schools and designated for classroom needs, including school supplies, STEM resources, educational materials, classroom enhancements and other items that support student learning.

The following educators were recognized as 2026 My Favorite Teacher Contest winners:
•    Christina Castro, Bremen Elementary, Bremen, IN
•    Shannon Loomis, Bremen Middle, Bremen, IN
•    Amelia Cockett, Eastside Elementary, Douglas, GA
•    Demi Ables, Westside Elementary, Douglas, GA
•    George Curry, Coffee Middle, Douglas, GA
•    Lori Hamilton, Satilla Elementary, Douglas, GA
•    Jose Villegas, The Linguistic Academy of El Paso, El Paso, TX
•    Toshiba Garner, Weeden Elementary, Florence, AL
•    Wayne Clemons, Orange Vista High, Perris, CA
•    Kelly Holmes, Cox Elementary, Roanoke, TX
•    Miranda Fawthrop, Grapevine Elementary, Grapevine, TX
•    Jeremy Owen, Cleburne County Elementary, Heflin, AL
•    Annette Dowds, Earl Nash Elementary, Macon, MS
•    William Walker, Partnership Middle, Starkville, MS
•    Niyoka Ewings Johnson, Church Hill Elementary, West Point, MS
•    Madalyn Langley, Bowdon Elementary, Bowdon, GA
•    Julia Besso, Carrollton Elementary, Carrollton, GA
•    Luke Young, Carrollton High, Carrollton, GA
•    Shandaria “Shan” McClure, Mt. Zion Middle, Carrollton, GA
•    Tamra Huffman, Central High, Carrollton, GA
•    Savannah Thornhill, Centralhatchee Elementary, Franklin, GA
•    Mandy Benefield, Tallapoosa Primary, Tallapoosa, GA

Southwire extends its congratulations to this year’s winners and appreciation to all educators whose commitment helps students learn, grow and succeed.

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