Calhoun Primary School announced on May 7 that Mrs. Mardee Burton has been named the 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year, while Mrs. Alexis Clifton has been selected as the Staff Member of the Year.
These recognitions highlight educators and staff who make significant contributions to students’ learning environments and well-being. The awards underscore the school’s commitment to excellence in education and student support.
Mrs. Burton is in her eleventh year as an educator and currently serves as a special education teacher at Calhoun Primary School. She previously taught third grade in general education settings. Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Western Governors University, a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the University of West Georgia, as well as ESOL and Dyslexia endorsements. According to colleagues, “Mrs. Burton is described as a calming presence, a supportive teammate, and a dedicated educator who meets every student with patience, compassion, and high expectations.” The school reports that she creates “a welcoming environment where students feel valued and supported while encouraging both students and colleagues to grow and succeed.” The announcement notes her “commitment to excellence and love for her students make a lasting impact throughout the school community.”
Mrs. Clifton serves as Calhoun Primary School’s nurse during her first year in this role after graduating from Calhoun High School in 2018 where she completed CNA and Healthcare pathways before earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of West Georgia in 2022. Prior to joining CPS, she worked at West Georgia Gastroenterology. Colleagues say that “Mrs. Alexis is known for creating a welcoming environment where students feel safe, cared for, and supported while handling the fast-paced demands of the school clinic with professionalism and confidence.” They also describe her as “a calm, compassionate, and dependable presence for both students and staff,” noting that her positive attitude makes her an invaluable part of CPS.
Calhoun City School District provides public education from early childhood through high school in Calhoun, Georgia. It operates five schools serving about 4,200 students across three campuses while partnering with families to enhance academic programs including arts and athletics; it maintains a graduation rate of 100 percent according to the official website.
The district also promotes cultural development through its comprehensive offerings spanning academics to athletics according to its official website.
