In every corner of Spartanburg District Five, there are people who make a difference—and today, we’re proud to recognize two of our very best.
District Five is thrilled to announce that Brandon Haskins, a Special Education teacher at D.R. Hill Middle School, has been named the 2025-26 District Five Teacher of the Year! The exciting news was revealed in a surprise visit Friday morning from Superintendent Dr. Randall Gary.
Haskins, who views education not just as a profession but as a calling, has always known that his purpose was to make a difference in the lives of children. From mentoring youth at his church to working with the Boys and Girls Club, his life has been dedicated to service.
As a Special Education teacher, Haskins says his mission is to help every student feel like they belong—just as they are. “I just love what I do,” he shared. “When I first started teaching, I worked in a place where I was invisible. Here, my colleagues see me, and I’m just very blessed.”
He is known at D.R. Hill for building strong relationships and creating a classroom culture rooted in trust and collaboration. Outside of the classroom, he is heavily involved in student life, serving as the Student Council advisor and supporting a variety of student activities throughout the year.
As District Teacher of the Year, Brandon will now serve as an advocate for fellow educators and represent Spartanburg Five in the South Carolina Teacher of the Year program.
Meanwhile, a heartfelt celebration was also taking place at Tyger River Elementary School, where Christie Lautrey was named the 2025 District Five Support Employee of the Year!
Every day, Christie ensures not only that the building is clean and safe—but that it is a welcoming environment for every student and staff member who walks through the doors. Her smile is seen in every hallway, and her pride in her work shines through in every corner of the school.
In her nomination, Principal Shayne Daugherty shared that Lautrey has been instrumental in Tyger River earning the district’s “Shining Star” award three times this year. “Christie is a huge asset here at Tyger River Elementary,” he said. “Outside of her daily tasks, she greets our kids—especially our multilingual students—as they enter each day, and she steps in to translate when quick communication is needed. She has played a key role in making our Hispanic families feel welcome and safe.”
For Lautrey, being a support employee is not just a job—it’s a calling. “From the highest office to the classroom floor, we form the backbone that holds the system together,” she shared. “Our work may not always be in the spotlight, but we are all part of the same team, working toward a common goal of providing the best educational experience for every student.”
Please join us in congratulating Brandon Haskins and Christie Lautrey on this well-deserved recognition. These two outstanding employees represent the very best of Spartanburg District Five!