May 14, 2026, Lancaster ISD/Lancaster, TX -- Lancaster ISD is proud to announce the 2025–2026 Staff Members and Department of the Year. The winners were surprised during the district’s annual Staff of the Year Party Patrol led by Superintendent Dr. A. K. Perera, members of the executive leadership team and campus leaders. Family members joined many of the honorees during the special announcements, making each celebration even more meaningful.
These outstanding employees represent the very best of Lancaster ISD and embody what it means to Learn, Lead, and Roar. Please join us in celebrating this year’s honorees:
Department of the Year
Finance Department
Behind every successful school district is a team ensuring resources are managed with excellence and integrity. Lancaster ISD’s Finance Department has played a critical role in maintaining strong financial stewardship, supporting departments across the district, and helping position Lancaster ISD for continued success. Their commitment to accuracy, accountability, and service has made them an essential part of district operations.
Rookie Teacher of the Year
Gerald Smith
Rosa Parks/Millbrook Elementary
In his first year, Gerald Smith has already made a remarkable impact through creativity and innovation in the classroom. His engaging teaching style uses music, movement, and performance to create memorable learning experiences while building student confidence. He has quickly become a standout educator and campus leader.
Paraprofessional of the Year
Shanae Wofford
Rolling Hills Elementary
Shanae Wofford is known for her compassion, flexibility, and dedication to student success. She works closely with students receiving specialized support, ensures accommodations are implemented with care, and consistently steps in wherever needed to support both students and staff. Her servant leadership has made her an invaluable member of the Rolling Hills family.
Elementary Teacher of the Year
Aisha Seals
Houston Elementary
Aisha Seals has created a classroom culture centered on high expectations, student growth, and meaningful relationships. Her dedication to ensuring students are academically prepared while feeling supported has made a lasting impact on her campus community. Through engaging instruction and a commitment to excellence, she continues to help students thrive.
Secondary Teacher of the Year
Chasity Pitts-Armstead
GWC 6th Grade STEM Learning Center
Chasity Pitts-Armstead has demonstrated a deep commitment to student achievement and academic excellence. Her ability to build meaningful relationships with students while maintaining high standards has created a strong culture of learning. She continues to inspire students to reach their fullest potential.
Principal of the Year
Kirsten Jett
Lancaster High School
As principal of Lancaster High School, Kirsten Jett has helped lead a culture focused on excellence, accountability, and student success. Under her leadership, students continue to thrive academically and extracurricularly while building on Lancaster ISD’s tradition of excellence, including the district’s continued legacy of a 100% graduation rate.
Instructional Employee of the Year
Patonia Bell
Chief of Data & Accountability
Patonia Bell has been named Lancaster ISD’s 2025–2026 Instructional Employee of the Year for her outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to student success across the district. Through her work supporting accountability systems, CCMR initiatives, testing programs, and counseling services, Ms. Bell plays a vital role in helping campuses make data-informed decisions that positively impact students.
Known for her collaborative leadership style and attention to detail, Ms. Bell works closely with campus administrators, counselors, and teachers to ensure students are supported academically and prepared for future success. Her ability to transform complex data into meaningful strategies has helped strengthen instructional practices and improve outcomes across Lancaster ISD.
Ms. Bell’s commitment to excellence, service, and continuous improvement continues to make a lasting difference for students, staff, and families throughout the district.
Employee of the Year
Dr. Cassandra Barker
Deputy Superintendent
Dr. Cassandra Barker has been named Lancaster ISD’s 2025–2026 Employee of the Year for her exceptional leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. As Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, Dr. Barker has played a key role in driving student achievement, supporting instructional growth, and helping shape the district’s culture of excellence.
Through her leadership, Lancaster ISD has continued to strengthen instructional practices, increase academic performance, and implement systems that support both students and educators. She is known for her ability to inspire others, build strong relationships, and lead with both high expectations and compassion.
Dr. Barker’s dedication to ensuring every student receives a high-quality education has made a tremendous impact across Lancaster ISD. Her leadership continues to empower staff, support campuses, and help students succeed at the highest levels.
Lancaster ISD is proud to celebrate these exceptional leaders and teams whose dedication continues to make a difference in the lives of students every day. Thank you for helping our students learn, lead, and roar toward success.
Thank you to our 2025-2026 Staff of the Year Sponsors
FastSigns
PBK
Procedeo
SkyBox Datacenters