Staffulty from across the Hancock County School District came together at the Hancock Performing Arts Center to launch the 2025–2026 school year with energy, unity, and purpose. The annual convocation event, built around the theme “Making Waves of Greatness,” celebrated the district’s accomplishments, recognized outstanding staff, and inspired everyone to dive into the year ahead with passion and persistence.
Superintendent Rhett Ladner opened the event by reminding staff of the district’s unwavering commitment to its mission: We are Hancock, and we are dedicated to graduating, motivating, and celebrating all. With a focus on the district’s core values—Honor Children & Staffulty First, Protect, Be Relentless, Own It, Create Positive Culture, and Be Active and Innovative—the stage was set for a year of momentum and meaningful impact.
One of the most anticipated parts of the morning was the recognition of outstanding staff and teachers from across the district. Each school, along with the Curriculum Department and the Office of Exceptional Children (OEC), honored one teacher and one support staff member for their contributions, commitment, and impact:
East Hancock Elementary: Mandi Anderson (Support Staff), Tonya Green (Teacher)
Hancock North Central Elementary: Ramona Ladner (Support Staff), Kirsten Mitchell (Teacher)
South Hancock Elementary: Courtney Jones (Support Staff), Anthony Lusco (Teacher)
West Hancock Elementary: Caroline Fausett (Support Staff), Heather Sours (Teacher)
Hancock Middle School: Megan Lind (Support Staff), Leah Dewberry-Gilmore (Teacher)
Hancock County Career Technical Center: Brandalyn Ladner (Support Staff), Sarah Elliot (Teacher)
Hancock High School: Vicki Beach (Support Staff), Frances Vandercook (Teacher)
OEC: Tammi Spence
Curriculum Department: Liz Vernaci
The celebration continued with the presentation of High Flyer and Increased Altitude recognitions, honoring teachers whose students demonstrated exceptional proficiency or notable growth on state assessments, including Advanced Placement exams. These awards reflect the relentless dedication of educators committed to helping students reach their full potential.
Adding inspiration to the event was internationally acclaimed speaker and storyteller Mark Brown, known as The Hope Dealer. His keynote reminded staffulty that every student needs someone to believe in them—and that educators have the power to change the trajectory of a child’s life. With heartfelt stories and practical wisdom, he left the audience motivated and ready to make a difference.
The morning wrapped up with a spirited convocation rally featuring team games like a pizza box challenge, a relay race, and a loudest team competition. The energy in the room was undeniable, and when the final cheers settled, the Blue Tsunamis were crowned the 2025 Rally Champions.
From recognition to motivation, competition to connection, the 2025 HCSD Convocation set the tone for a year focused on growth, unity, and impact. As the waves of greatness begin to ripple across every classroom and campus, Hancock County School District stands ready to support, celebrate, and elevate every student and every staff member.