Jarkevin Clark, Richmond Hill Middle School 

Jarkevin Clark teaches eighth-grade Social Studies at Richmond Hill Middle School. Clark holds a master's degree in public administration and previously worked at Amazon, where he developed patience—a key trait that has helped him in the classroom. He joined our school system to make a positive impact in his community. The transition to teaching took him outside of his comfort zone, as he knew that growth requires stepping into discomfort. His most memorable moment as a teacher so far is witnessing the growth of his students, describing it as the most beautiful experience he's ever had. 

Betsy Barber, Lake Forest Hills Elementary School 

Betsy Barber is a first-grade teacher at Lake Forest Hills Elementary School. Barber began her teaching journey as an educator in McDuffie County. Barber transitioned to RCSS because she was drawn to our school system’s sense of community and our mission to develop learners that are equipped to face challenges beyond the classroom. Her most memorable experience has been the transition into Lake Forest Hills Elementary School. She says she felt immediate love and support from not only her colleagues, but also the wonderful families in her school community. 

Joyce O'Neal, C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School 

Joyce O'Neal is a second-grade teacher at C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School. Before joining RCSS, O’Neal managed a dance studio for 14 years and was also an active volunteer in her children's elementary schools. She began her teaching career after being approached by a principal asking if she would consider being a substitute teacher. After a year of subbing, she realized teaching was exactly where she was supposed to be. She applied for Augusta Technical College's Early Childhood Education Program to start the journey to become a certified teacher and has never looked back.  O’Neal is grateful for the opportunity to do what she loves as a C.T. Walker Wildcat and educator in Richmond County. Her greatest success is the strong, positive relationships that she has built with her students and their families.  

Sophia Hiatt, Academy of Richmond County High School  

Sophia Hiatt teaches ninth-twelfth grade Science at Academy of Richmond County.  Before Hiatt worked for RCSS, she was a missionary who mentored students at the University of Alabama’s campus ministry. She aims to introduce her high school students to college life, equipping them with the knowledge and preparation they need for life after graduation.  One of her most memorable classroom moments was the Biotechnology Debate, an idea developed by her biology colleagues. Students divided into teams, researched various biotechnologies, and debated the ethical implications—both affirmative and negative—of topics such as GMOs, HeLa cells, and designer babies. The project provided an opportunity for students who struggle with traditional test-taking to showcase their knowledge and personality in a meaningful way.