Jones County math teacher named Georgia Teacher of the Year

Charm Mapp, an eighth-grade math teacher at Clifton Ridge Middle School in Jones County, has been named Georgia’s 2027 Teacher of the Year. State School Superintendent Richard Woods announced her as the winner during a banquet at the Georgia Aquarium on Saturday, selecting her from 10 finalists who had each been named their district’s Teacher of the Year. Mapp, who has 23 years of experience in education, uses classroom number talks to make math relatable for students through discussions with teachers, community members, and family members. She also serves as a gifted lead teacher at Clifton Ridge Middle School and supports the Jones County Virtual Academy. Mapp holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in middle grades education, a specialist’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Georgia College & State University, and is pursuing a doctorate in the same field. She has mentored 19 student teachers and worked as a pre-education instructor for Georgia College & State University. As Georgia Teacher of the Year, Mapp will advocate for public education, speak about the teaching profession, and serve as an ex-officio member of the State Board of Education. She will also participate in the selection process for the 2027 National Teacher of the Year. Her term will run from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, aligning with the national program’s timeline.