THOMAS COUNTY, Ga. (WCTV) – It’s time to honor WCTV’s first Teacher of the Month for 2026, and January’s recognition is going to Thomas County Middle School. WCTV, along with Addition Financial, awarded Arissie Hightower, an 8th-grade inclusion teacher, for her dedication to students who face a wide range of learning challenges. Hightower is known for setting high expectations in her classroom while providing the support her students need to meet them. Her nomination describes her teaching style as “tough love,” reflecting her deep care for her students’ success. That same passion extends beyond the classroom and onto the basketball court. Hightower also coaches, using sports to teach confidence, persistence, and resilience, skills she believes are just as important as academics. Being named Teacher of the Month came as a surprise. “I was shocked, to be honest, because I don’t do it for the recognition,” Hightower said. “I just really love pouring back into the youth, so it was very unexpected.” Hightower said her goal is for every student who leaves her classroom to feel prepared and confident as they move on to high school. For the impact she continues to make both in and out of
