2024-2025 Employees of the Year
Each year, Kanawha County Schools proudly honors the outstanding individuals whose dedication, passion, and service make a lasting impact on students, families, and the broader school community.
For the 2024–2025 school year, the district is celebrating a remarkable group of educators and staff members who go above and beyond in their roles—whether in the classroom, behind the scenes, or on the front lines supporting student success.
These Employees of the Year represent the very best of Kanawha County Schools, and we are thrilled to recognize their hard work and unwavering commitment to excellence.
2024-2025 KCS Principal of the Year
- Karen Messinger, Pinch Elementary School
Mrs. Karen Messinger has been a dedicated employee in Kanawha County Schools for over 30 years, with most of her career at Pinch Elementary. Mrs. Messinger began there as a 2nd grade teacher and for the past seven years as principal.
As a former second grade teacher at Pinch, Karen worked hand-in-hand with the former school administration to initiate the Covey in Me philosophy. She continues to emphasize that philosophy having just had the annual Leadership Day on April 17th.
Mrs. Messinger consistently emphasizes the importance of recognizing her students, faculty, and staff for their ongoing effort, not only in academics, but for their effort in being leaders in their school and community, as well. Karen takes every opportunity to raises funds and provide incentives to show her appreciation for them.
2024-2025 KCS Service Person of the Year
- Norman Dotson, Custodian at Richmond Elementary School
Mr. Norman, as he is known to students, is known for going above and beyond in everything he does. Whether he's keeping the school spotless, fixing a leaky faucet, or helping a teacher set up of a classroom, he does it all with care and pride.
More than just doing his job well, Norman takes the time to connect with everyone — from student and teachers to parents and staff-always offering a warm smile and helping hand.
He's passionate about making the school a better place, and there's truly nothing he wouldn't do to help someone in need.
2024-2025 KCS Teacher of the Year
- Meleah Fisher, Band Director at Herbert Hoover High School
Meleah began her career with Kanawha County Schools in 1996 as the band director at DuPont High School. In 2000, Ms. Fisher moved into the same position at Herbert Hoover High School, and has been there ever since. Under Meleah's leadership the band at Herbert Hoover High School has flourished.
In 2016, after flooding completely destroyed Herbert Hoover High School, Ms. Fisher got straight to work, ensuring her students would not go without that year. She worked day and night to get band students uniforms and instruments. Her can do attitude and strength during this trying time set the tone for the school's recovery.
In recent years, Ms. Fisher helped a neighboring school, Capital High School, when they were without a band director. Her passion for students ensured CHS was still able to compete in the annual majorette festival. In 2017, Meleah was named West Virginia Bandmaster of the Year.
Congratulations
Congratulations to Karen, Norma, and Meleah! Your leadership and passion for helping students is inspiring to see and KCS is a better place to work and learn because of you!