Members of the 2026 Alleghany Highlands Public Schools Employee Hall of Fame class, shown from left, are Carol Claytor, Jan Hobbs, Sharon Campbell, Cathy Walton Drummer, John Woodzell, Rick Fuhrman, Dr. Paul Linkenhoker, Lori Dressler, Anita Rice, Brenda Tate, Kenny Higgins, Suzie Wallace, and Kathy Stapleton. Campbell, Drummer, and Dressler accepted the honor on behalf of the late Vickie Simmons, who was inducted posthumously. (AHPS Photo)

Local Educators Honored for Shaping Generations    Covington, VA (May 21, 2026) - Eleven longtime educators were inducted into the Alleghany Highlands Public Schools Employee Hall of Fame during a ceremony and banquet May 14 at Jackson River Technical Center. The Hall of Fame honors retired employees who made a lasting impact through decades of service to students, schools and the community. Inductees must have at least 20 years of service with Alleghany County Public Schools, Covington City Public Schools, Clifton Forge Public Schools, Jackson River Technical Center, or Alleghany Highlands Public Schools and be retired at least five years. The inductees were nominated by the local community and selected through a screening process conducted by a committee of current and former educators. This year’s inductees are: • Carol Claytor served 35 years as an assistant librarian and physical education teacher at Central Elementary and Mountain View Elementary schools, retiring in 2019. She is remembered for her steady presence in school libraries and classrooms and for the encouragement she gave students throughout her career. • Rick Fuhrman taught health, driver’s education and physical education, coached multiple sports and later served as guidance counselor, assistant principal, athletic director and principal at Covington High School. He also served two terms on the Covington City School Board, continuing his commitment to students in and out of the classroom. • Kenny Higgins taught and coached at Clifton Forge High School and Alleghany High School, later serving as assistant principal, athletic director, principal and transportation director before retiring in 2013. He continues to serve as a substitute teacher at Jackson River Technical Center, staying connected to the school community he spent decades serving. • Jan Hobbs worked in Alleghany County schools as a special education teacher, assistant principal, elementary principal and central office administrator, retiring in 2019 after a career that included district leadership in student programs, human resources and accountability. Colleagues describe her as a consistent advocate for students and staff. • Dr. Paul Linkenhoker taught and coached in Covington City Schools before serving as principal and assistant superintendent in Alleghany County Schools. He oversaw major school construction projects, retired in 2004 and remains active in local history, heritage, and civic organizations, continuing to contribute to the community he helped shape. • Anita Rice taught family and consumer sciences for 27 years, coached cheerleading and advised student organizations. She taught at multiple schools before retiring in 2014 from Covington High School and remains active in community and advocacy work, including ongoing support for cancer research initiatives and continued involvement in programs that benefit local youth. • Vickie Simmons taught for 39 years and was known for her focus on reading instruction and student support. She continued tutoring and substitute teaching after retirement. Simmons died in 2025 and is remembered for her dedication to helping students build confidence and strong literacy skills. • Kathy Stapleton taught for 41 years in grades 4-7 for Covington City Schools, coached volleyball and track and was named Teacher of the Year for 2009-10. She was known for building strong, lasting relationships with students and families across generations. • Brenda Tate taught social studies for 41 years, sponsored multiple student organizations and was recognized for her commitment to preparing students for college and life beyond graduation. She is remembered for challenging students to think critically and aim high. • Suzie Wallace taught for more than 60 years across multiple schools, coached athletics and led adult education programs. She continues to serve as a substitute teacher at Jackson River Technical Center, remaining a familiar and respected presence in local education. • John Woodzell taught biology and coached football, basketball and track, leading Covington High School to a 1984 state football championship. He also served as a lay speaker in churches, as well as in local government and civic organizations, and is remembered for combining classroom teaching with a strong record of leadership in athletics and public service. “These inductees remind us why we do what we do every day in public education,” said Kim Halterman, superintendent. “Their dedication, commitment and impact on generations of students are felt not just in our schools, but throughout the entire Alleghany Highlands community. We are grateful for their service and proud to honor their legacy.” “It was so good to see and recognize so many people who have dedicated their lives to education and this community,” said Melinda Snead-Johnson, assistant superintendent. “Their influence reaches far beyond the classroom, and the relationships they built with students, families and colleagues continue to make a difference across the Alleghany Highlands. It is a privilege to celebrate their lasting impact.” The AHPS Employee Hall of Fame was established in 2024. This year’s inductees will join members of the inaugural 2024 class — Helen Harris of Covington City Schools; Brenda Holloway of Covington City Public Schools; Harold Lambert of Covington City Public Schools; Archie Wells of Clifton Forge and Alleghany County Public Schools; Linda Williams of Alleghany County Public Schools; Donna Vaughn of Alleghany County Public Schools; and the late Katharine Nicely of Alleghany County Public Schools — as well as the 2025 class, which includes the late Lewis “Butch” Venable Jr. of Covington City Public Schools; Sue Wolfe of Covington City Schools and Jackson River Technical Center; John Hutchison of Clifton Forge Schools and Alleghany High School; Celia Moore of Alleghany County Public Schools; Teresa Johnson of Alleghany County Public Schools; Diana Laws of Alleghany County Public Schools; Nancy Moga of Alleghany County Public Schools; and Brenda Siple of Alleghany County Public Schools.Â

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