Madison Liddle, an Exceptional Children’s teacher at Harold E. Winkler Middle School, has been named the 2025-26 Cabarrus County Schools (CCS) Teacher of the Year. Superintendent Dr. John Kopicki made the announcement Thursday night at the conclusion of the district’s “Celebration of Excellence” ceremony held at Concord High School. 

The annual ceremony spotlights the best-of-the-best across multiple Cabarrus County Schools’ departments and culminates in the naming of the Teacher of the Year. 

“Madison Liddle exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an educator in Cabarrus County Schools,” Dr. Kopicki said. “Her unwavering commitment to her students, innovative teaching practices, and passion for inclusive learning have made a lasting impact on our school community. We are proud to honor her as our 2025–26 Teacher of the Year and celebrate the difference she makes every day in the lives of her students and colleagues.” 

Madison, whose parents Greg and Heidi are both educators in Cabarrus County, began her teaching career in 2021 upon graduation from the University of North Carolina Charlotte.  She is a 2017 graduate of Hickory Ridge High School and the second consecutive CCS Teacher of the Year to be an alumnus of CCS, following 2024-25 winner Caleb Snell, who graduated from Jay M. Robinson High School.

“What an incredible honor it is to be named Cabarrus County Schools Teacher of the Year!” Madison said. “My journey as an educator has been filled with growth, learning, and countless moments of inspiration. Every day, I am driven to be the best version of myself for my students. Thank you for this incredible recognition. I’m looking forward to another amazing year of learning, leading, and growing together!” 

Madison is a passionate Exceptional Children (EC) teacher and leader at Winkler Middle School where she has spent all four years of her teaching career. She serves as EC Lead, Co-Teaching Committee Lead, and has held key roles on the School Leadership and Culture Committees.  

“Madison Liddle has profoundly impacted the Harold E. Winkler Middle School community through her leadership, dedication, and commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students,” said Winkler Principal Rebecca Phillips. “We are deeply grateful to have Ms. Liddle as such an influential stronghold in our Wolves family and are truly honored to celebrate her recognition as CCS Teacher of the Year.” 

A mentor for beginning teachers and a cheerleading coach, Madison is also a frequent presenter at district and regional professional development, sharing her knowledge on sensory engagement, small group instruction, and inclusive practices. A National Board Certified Teacher and former NC Teaching Fellow, she has received multiple teaching awards and education grants for her innovative approach to student learning. 

“Schools and communities should work to create environments where all children, regardless of ability, have access to meaningful opportunities, individualized support, and collaborative networks that foster their growth, inclusion, and success,” Liddle said. “Classrooms should transform into settings where all children can learn without judgment. Families should receive extra support at home by making resources and outside agencies more accessible. Educators should dedicate time to alter their teaching practices to fit the individual needs of a learner. Children- both with and without disabilities- should have ample opportunities to engage within their school settings. Educators and families should work to create a genuine partnership that supports the growth of a student, both inside and outside of the classroom.”  

Teachers of the Year are chosen annually at each of CCS’ 44 schools. Finalists are then selected from those 44 candidates. Joining Liddle as finalists for the district Teacher of the Year were Royal Oaks School of the Arts’ Brookelyn Boan, Concord Middle School’s Kelley Carpenter, West Cabarrus High School’s Jennifer McCarthy, and Sarah Nielsen from Pitts School Road Elementary. 

Congratulations to CCS Teacher of the Year Madison Liddle!