Garrard County Schools is proud to recognize Megan Simpson of Garrard Middle School as the 2026 FRAN Award recipient, honoring her outstanding dedication to students and her unwavering commitment to helping every student succeed.
The FRAN Award was created to recognize the dedication and impact of classified employees across Garrard County Schools. Nominated by their peers, FRAN Award recipients are individuals who consistently go above and beyond for students, particularly those who need additional support, encouragement and care.
Megan is described by her colleagues as a true superstar at Garrard Middle School. Whether she is working one-on-one with a student, leading a small group, supporting a co-taught classroom or simply recognizing when a student needs a little extra encouragement, Megan consistently steps in with compassion, patience and action.
Her colleagues emphasized that Megan never hesitates to help wherever she is needed.
“Megan is a superstar among our GMS staff. She comes to work each day to give our students with various needs support within the classroom and beyond.”
In the classroom, Megan works with small groups, reads and scribes for students, helps students keep up with assignments and provides the additional time and patience they need to be successful. Even when students face challenges, her colleagues say Megan remains calm, encouraging and focused on helping them move forward.
One colleague shared that Megan “never lowers her expectations,” instead giving students the tools and confidence they need to reach those expectations.
“She helps them by giving them tools to succeed but not doing things for them. She shows and tells them how much she believes in them and always encourages them to try.”
That combination of compassion and high expectations is one of the qualities that makes Megan such a valuable member of the GMS team. She works to help students become not only better learners, but better individuals.
Her colleagues also noted that Megan was pulled in many different directions throughout the school year, but her priority never changed: the students.
“She is the type person that you don't have to wonder if she's working for your kid,” one colleague wrote. “You automatically know she is.”
Megan's impact extends beyond the students she directly supports. Her quiet leadership, willingness to step in and genuine care for others have made her a trusted and valued member of the Garrard Middle School community. She does her work without seeking recognition, simply because she believes in her students and wants to see them succeed.
Megan embodies the very best of the FRAN Award through her visible compassion, quiet leadership, unwavering dedication and genuine commitment to students.
Congratulations, Megan, and thank you for the difference you make in the lives of our students and the entire Garrard Middle School community!
