Treat Named Thomas County Schools Teacher of the Year

Elizabeth Treat, a third-grade English Language Arts teacher, recognized for her impact on students and commitment to the community.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 1:22am

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of an elementary school classroom, with blurred shapes of desks, chairs, and educational materials in a warm, inviting color palette, conceptually representing the nurturing and collaborative atmosphere that fosters excellent teaching.The vibrant, supportive learning environment at Cross Creek Elementary School helps shape the award-winning work of teacher Elizabeth Treat.Thomasville Today

Thomas County Schools has named Elizabeth Treat, a third-grade English Language Arts teacher at Cross Creek Elementary School, as the District Teacher of the Year for 2026–2027. Treat, who holds multiple degrees and endorsements in education, is being recognized for her ability to build strong relationships with students, foster their academic and personal growth, and contribute to the collaborative culture at her school.

Why it matters

The Teacher of the Year award highlights the vital role that dedicated educators play in shaping the lives of students and supporting the broader school community. Treat's recognition reflects the high caliber of teaching talent within Thomas County Schools and the district's commitment to providing a nurturing and empowering learning environment for all students.

The details

Elizabeth Treat has been teaching third-grade English Language Arts at Cross Creek Elementary School for several years. She is known for her ability to create an equitable classroom where students feel supported and empowered to take ownership of their learning. Treat prioritizes building strong relationships with her students and focuses on developing their academic skills, confidence, and love of learning.

  • Elizabeth Treat was named the Thomas County Schools District Teacher of the Year for the 2026–2027 school year.

The players

Elizabeth Treat

A third-grade English Language Arts teacher at Cross Creek Elementary School who was named the Thomas County Schools District Teacher of the Year for 2026–2027.

Dr. Lisa Williams

The superintendent of Thomas County Schools, who praised Treat for setting the standard for teaching and learning in the district.

Cross Creek Elementary School

The school where Elizabeth Treat teaches, which is described as a collaborative and supportive environment that has helped Treat grow both personally and professionally.

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What they’re saying

“Being named Teacher of the Year feels both humbling and incredibly rewarding. It brings a deep sense of pride – not just for the recognition itself, but for the opportunity to represent my school district.”

— Elizabeth Treat, Third-grade English Language Arts Teacher

“Mrs. Treat sets the standard for what teaching and learning should look like across our system. In a district filled with strong educators, she distinguishes herself through the consistency of her impact and the way she develops both the academic skills and confidence of her students.”

— Dr. Lisa Williams, Superintendent

What’s next

Treat will represent Thomas County Schools at the state-level Teacher of the Year competition.

The takeaway

Elizabeth Treat's recognition as the Thomas County Schools District Teacher of the Year highlights the importance of dedicated educators who foster strong relationships with students, create equitable learning environments, and contribute to a collaborative school culture. Her award-winning work serves as an inspiration for teachers across the district.