Dr. Shannon Peeples and Suzanne Imperiale received the highest honors for a Guilford County Schools (GCS) teacher and principal. They now represent the district as the 2026-2027 Teacher and Principal of the Year, respectively.
The district honored its extraordinary educators and the work they do to improve learning and life outcomes for students during its annual Celebration of Excellence. Dr. Peeples and Ms. Imperiale each received $2,500 and will go on to represent the district in regional and state competitions.
"Every day across Guilford County Schools, I see great people leading with purpose, inspiring others and believing deeply in what every student can achieve. Our educators create the conditions for students to learn, grow and thrive. Tonight, we celebrate educators whose talent, dedication and heart make that possible. They represent the very best of GCS, and we are proud to honor their excellence and the lasting difference they make in the lives of our students," Superintendent Whitney Oakley said.
People are also reading…
Teacher of the Year finalists
- Heather Graham, Claxton Elementary
- Suzanne Imperiale, Gateway Education Center - Winner
- Travis King, Page High
- Rodney Milton, Hairston Middle
- Detisa Weeks, Shadybrook Elementary
Principal of the Year finalists
- Robin Britt, Monticello, Brown Summit Elementary
- Shannon Peeples, Peeler-Hampton Visual & Performing Arts Elementary - Winner
- Chris Scott, Southeast Guilford High
- Fredrick Sellars, Smith High
- Chelsea Smith, Ferndale Middle
GCS handed out awards in seven additional categories for school staff, recognized classified employees and awarded two schools for their school pride. The district also recognized community partners who have made contributions toward the success and continued advancement of students.
Celebration of Excellence would not be possible without headliner sponsor, shift_ed.
"Great educators do more than teach. They help students discover what is possible for their lives and give them the confidence and support to pursue it. At shift_ed, we are proud to once again serve as the headline sponsor of Celebration of Excellence and to honor the extraordinary educators and leaders across Guilford County Schools who show up every day for students, families and our community. Their impact reaches far beyond the classroom, shaping the future of Guilford County for generations to come," said Wendy Poteat, president and CEO of shift_ed.
Other generous contributors included The Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro, Replacements Ltd., Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts, The Oral Surgery Institute, Inc., Carolina Thomas, Cone Health, The Cemala Foundation, Truliant FCU, Brady Services, Koury Corp, Lincoln Financial Group, and Armfield Foundation.
