Orange Beach City Schools announced the four 2025-2026 staff members and teachers of the year earlier this month.

Grace Stanton and Janna Bradford were selected as the 2025-2026 Teachers of the Year, while Rachel Pettiway and Elizabeth Wood were named Staff Members of the Year.

Orange Beach Board of Education members, central office staff and Superintendent Randy Wilkes joined the campus visits to celebrate the remarkable dedication, service and impact these honorees make on their students, their schools and the Orange Beach community.

Janna Bradford, fourth grade math teacher at Orange Beach Elementary School (OBES), has been named Elementary Teacher of the Year. Known for her calm, patient and consistent approach, she teaches math in a way that "just clicks" for students. Her class earned the #1 ACAP math scores in the state of Alabama, and her students routinely demonstrate some of the highest growth and proficiency in our school.

Despite her exceptional academic results, it's her heart that truly sets her apart. She builds strong, caring relationships with her students, holds high expectations while meeting each child exactly where they are and pours into the community — spending afternoons tutoring at Expect Excellence and evenings connecting with families. The city school system said they are proud to honor her impact on OBES.

Grace Stanton, theater director and drama teacher at Orange Beach Middle/High School (OBMHS), was announced as the Secondary Teacher of the Year. Her students often say she "helps everyone do their best, whether they are onstage or working behind the scenes," and she creates a classroom where they feel supported and encouraged.

Her coworkers describe her as "a strong leader who turns ideas into great performances," and families often share that she "makes theater feel like a home for every student." Through her hard work and care, Stanton has built a program that highlights student talent and teaches confidence, teamwork and the joy of performing.

Elizabeth Wood, special education paraprofessional at OBES, has been named Staff Member of the Year. Elizabeth has a big heart for children and treats every student as if they were her own.

Her sweet, calming presence helps every child feel important, valued and loved. Dependable, hardworking and always ready to help before help is even requested, Wood supports everyone around her. Her positive influence is felt by students, teachers and families alike.

Rachel Pettiway, bookkeeper at OBMHS, was announced as Secondary Staff Member of the Year. She is known for her steady professionalism, positive attitude and willingness to help others. Teachers often say she "keeps our school running smoothly every single day," and that she is "the person we can always count on."

Staff members frequently mention that she "handles every task with patience and kindness," making everyone feel supported and valued. Her attention to detail, dependability and friendly nature make Pettiway an example of dedication and service.

Bradford, Staton, Wood and Pettiway will be honored at the Legacy Awards Banquet on January 29, 2026, at Perdido Beach Resort.