(Back row: Becky Buck, Principal Joseph Mastracci, Teacher of the Year Tara Amick. Front Row: Gavin Buck, Isadora Buck, and Brenna Amick)
Hurrican, WV - Lakeside Elementary School (Putnam County Schools) named Mrs. Tara Amick as its 2026 Teacher of the Year, honoring her 20 years of dedicated service, exceptional educational expertise, strong leadership, and deep commitment to student success. Lakeside Elementary Principal Joe Mastracci states that Mrs. Amick is “an unwavering positive force for good” at the school. Mrs. Amick is currently in her sixth year as a Title I teacher, where she provides targeted support to help students build strong reading and math foundations and achieve meaningful academic growth. Fellow Title I teacher, Brianna Wiley, says that “sharing a classroom with her for the past 6 years has allowed me to learn so much from the way she introduces topics and teaches, to the way she cares and loves our kids.” Grade 1 teacher Stephanie Blake says that Mrs. Amick makes learning so engaging that “students beg to go to her class.” She holds both a master’s degree in reading education and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Marshall University, and is widely respected by colleagues, students, and families for her compassion, professionalism, and belief in every child’s potential. That sentiment is echoed by her husband, Hurricane Middle Math Teacher Aaron Amick, who knows her dedication for her craft. He says that Mrs. Amick's "love for her students and concern for their development and future is unquestioned.” This year’s recognition reflects the deep appreciation and respect Mrs. Amick has earned from the entire Lakeside community, and the school celebrates her continued commitment to making Lakeside Elementary School a vibrant community of safe, happy learners achieving excellence.