The West Virginia Board of Education and the West Virginia Department of Education announced Brandon Kelley from Upshur County as the 2026 West Virginia School Service Personnel of the Year during the Celebration of Excellence in Education event at the Culture Center in Charleston on Tuesday evening.
Kelley is a dedicated custodian at Washington District Elementary School, where he exemplifies excellence in service, professionalism and integrity. Known for his outstanding work ethic and commitment to maintaining a clean and nurturing learning environment, Kelley plays an important role in daily school operations and the long-term success of students.
Beyond his custodial responsibilities, he serves as a student mentor and a dependable colleague to co-workers. He contributes to school- and district-wide improvement through his participation in the Superintendent’s Advisory Council and the Staff Development Council.
Upshur County Superintendent of Schools Christy Miller was on hand as Kelley received the award.
“Upshur County Schools is both proud and honored that Brandon Kelley will represent all service personnel in the state of West Virginia as a 2026 West Virginia School Service Personnel of the Year,” Miller said. “His dedication not only to his job but to our students and staff is outstanding, and we are so happy that others across the state recognize that and have honored him with his award this evening.”
Kayla Yocum, the principal of Washington District Elementary School, said Kelley ‘leads with heart.’
“Mr. Kelley is an essential member of our school family at Washington District Elementary School,” Yokum said. “It is an honor to congratulate him on becoming the 2026 West Virginia Service Personnel of the Year. This award reflects his passion, dedication, and commitment to our students, staff, and community.
“Mr. Kelley leads with heart, as he builds meaningful relationships with students, staff and families, allowing everyone who knows him to feel valued and appreciated. He serves with integrity and compassion, and leaves a lasting influence that empowers others to reach their fullest potential. It is an honor to celebrate him through this well-deserved recognition.”
Kelley’s compassion and dedication make him a valued member of the Washington District Elementary community.
“Mr. Kelley demonstrates why school service personnel are essential parts of our school communities. He is recognized as an effective role model for staff and students, and he eagerly serves others with humility,” said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. “His title is custodian, but his voice represents his peers and others with his service on various councils in the county. Mr. Kelley embodies what it means to be an ambassador for our state.”
WVBE member Debra Sullivan, Blatt, Miller, Yocum and a host of education leaders were present for the announcement.
Finalists were chosen from classroom aides, bus operators, cafeteria workers, custodians, maintenance workers, office workers and other school service personnel for outstanding contributions to their school and community.
The other finalists included:
- Ivy Alonso – Johnson Elementary School, Harrison County
- Haley Cummins – Marlinton Middle School, Pocahontas County
- Kristi Damron – Scott Teays Elementary School, Putnam County
- Keith Wright – John Marshall High School, Marshall County
Sponsor support of the SPOY program has elevated it to greater levels of success and effectiveness. The 2026 sponsors include:
| Sponsor | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Highmark West Virginia | $2,500 |
| Horace Mann | $2,500 |
| West Virginia Lottery | $500 grant |
| West Virginia Tourism | Two-night stay at a West Virginia State Park |
| Education West Virginia | $500 |
| West Virginia School Service Personnel Association | $500 |
| Tony the Tailor | $250 gift card |
| Blenko Glass | Commemorative handcrafted coin to all county winners |
Kelley’s tenure as the 2026 School Service Personnel of the Year begins January 1, 2026. To learn more about the SPOY program, visit the WVDE website.
