Tuesday night, Sampson County Schools named Adam Capps of Midway High and Anda Barefoot of Hobbton High the 2026-27 Teacher of the Year and Assistant Principal of the Year, respectively
The announcement came at the beginning of the school board’s regular meeting when several honors were given out. Each faculty member that was recognized received a bouquet of flowers and shook hands with board members after the announcements.
A former student from Midway High, between 2008-2012, Capps is a physical education teacher at the school, working at Midway since 2021. Over that time, Capps has also served as the school’s golf coach.
Upon receiving the title of the system’s top teacher, Capps said he felt “humbled” and honored by the achievement, stressing that he knows more now more than ever that this was his true calling.
“It’s an immense honor, really,” said Capps. “I think more than anything, it’s just a wonderful reminder of how blessed I am that God chose me to do this. Every single day is an absolute treasure and blessing to be able to do this for a living, and I absolutely love doing it. I cherish all the moments I have with these students. I think it’s a big time testament to the students I’ve had and how they’ve made me excited to come to work every single day.”
Barefoot echoed Capps’ sentiments. She has been working with the school on and off throughout the past 15 years. Although her time in the education field spans 28 years in total, Barefoot noted that the announcement of her title as Assistant Principal of the Year for the school system was a highlight. Despite this, she says she doesn’t go into her job with the mindset of winning awards.
“I was really surprised,” Barefoot attested. “I am so deeply honored, and it was incredibly validating to receive the honor. I love my job, and I don’t go into it expecting any awards or accolades for what I do. I just enjoy coming to work every day and working with students and teachers and staff. I love working in the Hobbton District, so it was just a phenomenal achievement for me.”
The runners-up for the categories were also given small certificates as well to ensure that no one went home empty-handed that night.
Midway Middle principal Nicole Peterson was named Principal of the Year last week.