Tasheira Parker-Mays Named FCS Support Professional of the Year for 2025-26

L-R: FCS Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney; FCS Board Member Dr. Michelle Morancie; FCS Board President Kristin McCabe; FCS Board Member Sara Gillespie; FCS Support Professional of the Year Tasheira Parker-Mays; Executive Director of Professional Learning Brian Keefer; Chief Human Resources Officer Dr. Gonzalo La Cava; and Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer Dr. Eric Hollinhead.

“You cannot challenge the status quo and initiate change without first observing what is currently happening.” Wise words from Tasheira Parker-Mays, the 2025-2026 Support Professional of the Year (SPOTY) from FCS’s Professional Learning and Leadership Department.

FCS criteria for recipients of this prestigious award include leading by example, creating value for customers, embracing change to drive improvement, and developing personal capabilities. Ms. Parker-Mays exceeds these criteria.

As a district employee for 6 years, Tasheira has done exceptional work. She was previously nominated as a Professional of the Year at High Point Elementary School, has earned a You Rock award from the FCS Human Resources Division, and is now a SPOTY after just 3 months in the central office as a Specialist II.

She continues to hone her skills in advanced project management with certifications from Emory University and Monday.com, a Work Operating System (OS) that manages tasks and workflows.

Dr. Brian Keefer, Executive Director of Professional Learning recommended Tasheira Parker-Mays for the SPOTY award. “Her ability to break down large projects into manageable components, prioritize tasks, and communicate clearly with her team has been instrumental in the success of multiple initiatives.” Dr. Keefer added, “What sets Tasheira apart is her innovative thinking. She has a natural ability to think outside the box, consistently identifying creative solutions to challenges.”

In her new position, Tasheira observed a need for employee collaboration space and spearheaded a multi-purpose conference room project within the department for meetings, training preparation, and inventory. The initiative enhanced the value and productivity of the department.

Her leadership in the use of new technologies guided the Human Resources Division in its adoption of an online project management tool to improve efficiency and organization.

Most notably, she fosters an environment of open communication and mutual respect, ensuring team members feel valued and heard.

Leading by example and inspiring others to strive for excellence has earned Tasheira Parker-Mays the FCS 2025-2026 Support Professional of the Year.