Congratulations to Dooly County’s very own Ms. Kamilya Henderson, who has been named Chattahoochee-Flint RESA’s 2026 Literacy Teacher of the Year! 
Initiated by the Georgia Council on Literacy, this recognition celebrates outstanding literacy instruction and student growth. K–3 teachers participated in a rigorous application process highlighting measurable growth through literacy screener data, effective use of data to guide instruction, and a commitment to improving student literacy outcomes.
Ms. Henderson exemplifies these qualities through her dedication to high-quality, research-based instruction grounded in the Science of Reading. She intentionally uses student data to meet individual learning needs and believes in every child’s potential. Her students are learning to become stronger readers while gaining confidence in themselves and all they can accomplish!
During a special surprise celebration, Ms. Henderson was presented with a $1,500 award and an assortment of gifts recognizing her dedication to literacy and student success. The recognition also includes $500 for classroom supplies. She also received gifts Amplify learning, Curriculum Associates, Amira, and others. She was celebrated at a small, intimate reception with special guests, including her family.
Among her gifts was the book Because I Had a Teacher, a beautiful reminder that a teacher’s influence reaches far beyond the classroom. We hope her students will one day look back and proudly say, “Because I had a teacher, I believed I could.”
And the celebration continues! Ms. Henderson will advance to the state competition for Georgia’s Literacy Teacher of the Year, representing Chattahoochee-Flint RESA. The statewide winner will receive an all-expense-paid opportunity to attend an approved literacy-focused instructional conference.
Ms. Henderson, thank you for the heart, purpose, and passion you bring to your classroom each day. You are making a lasting impact, one reader at a time. Your Dooly K–8 family and Chattahoochee-Flint RESA family are cheering you on every step of the way! 