GOLDSBORO, NC — A local educator is receiving statewide recognition for his commitment to student success and classroom excellence.
Rack Room Shoes announced Tuesday that Jeff Stocks, a fifth-grade teacher at Faith Christian Academy in Goldsboro, has been named one of five winners of the company’s 2026 Teacher of the Year Contest.
As part of the honor, Stocks and his school will receive a $10,000 innovation grant to support educational initiatives, along with a $500 Rack Room Shoes gift card.
The annual Teacher of the Year program recognizes educators who make a meaningful impact on students and their school communities. This year’s contest drew more than 600 nominations from across the country, more than double the number received the previous year.
Stocks was selected alongside four other North Carolina educators: Kaitlyn Adams of Lee County High School in Sanford, Alysha Christian of The Arts Based School in Winston-Salem, Denise Furr of Brooks Museums Magnet Elementary School in Raleigh, and Elizabeth Roebuck of Forestville Road Elementary School in Knightdale.
“This program is about celebrating educators who are making a real difference every day,” said Brenda Christmon, Senior Director of Brand Communications for Rack Room Shoes. “Their dedication continues to shape brighter futures, and we are proud to recognize their work through this program. We remain committed to honoring their contributions along with investing in the success of the students and communities we serve.”
The innovation grants are designed to help schools enhance learning environments and provide resources that support student development. Winning schools can use the funding to address their unique needs, with past grant recipients investing in robotics kits, classroom technology, student-run news programs, library resources, and inclusive playground equipment.
The recognition highlights the important role educators play in shaping future generations and brings statewide attention to the work being done in classrooms across North Carolina, including right here in Goldsboro.
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