WILLIAMSBURG — The WJCC Schools Foundation awarded more than $21,000 to Williamsburg-James City County school teachers and staff during its annual Impact Awards Ceremony Wednesday, May 7, at the Hennage Auditorium in the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg.
Approximately 200 community members, educators, and leaders gathered to honor 38 WJCC teachers and support staff who were nominated by school administrators and peers in recognition of their dedication, excellence and impact on student success.
The Teacher of the Year selection process follows criteria set by the Virginia Council of Chief State School Officers, recognizing individuals who demonstrate outstanding expertise, innovation, leadership and meaningful community involvement. Selected educators exemplify the highest standards of teaching and serve as leaders within their schools and beyond.
Since 2022, the Teacher of the Year celebration has been sponsored by the WJCC Schools Foundation.
In celebration of its 10-year anniversary, and with the support of a $15,000 anonymous private donation, the foundation expanded its awards program to include Support Employees of the Year and significantly increased the monetary prizes for all honorees.
WJCC Schools recognized the following level Teachers of the Year and division Support Employee of the Year, representing extraordinary staff serving as leaders among their peers.
- Megen Logan, first grade teacher at Clara Byrd Baker Elementary School: Elementary School Teacher of the Year
- Rebecca Nixon, orchestra and guitar teacher at Toano Middle School: Middle School Teacher of the Year
- Amanda Mullane, environmental science teacher and AP environmental science teacher at Jamestown High School: High School Teacher of the Year and Division-wide Teacher of the Year
- Erin Tubbs, cafeteria manager at Clara Byrd Baker Elementary School: Division-wide Support Employee of the Year
A complete list of Teachers of the Year and Support Employees of the Year can be viewed at each webpage.
“Our teachers and support staff consistently go beyond their job description. They lead with heart, show up with purpose, and leave a lasting effect on our students, colleagues, and entire school community. WJCC Schools has top quality educators and staff who positively impact students and school communities every day,” said Williamsburg-James City County Schools Superintendent Daniel F. Keever.
“As we approach the 10th anniversary of the WJCC Schools Foundation, we take this moment to celebrate our community’s deep belief in the excellence of our schools and the power of public education,” said Penny Pulley, Chair of the WJCC Schools Foundation. “The gifts and awards being distributed today are made possible by hundreds of donors, including a generous $15,000 contribution from one individual who specifically wished to honor the educators and staff who go above and beyond every day. This event and these awards are a powerful reflection of our community’s enduring commitment to public education.”
As part of its mission, the WJCC Schools Foundation partners with the community to provide resources that enrich teaching and inspire learning.
Its initiatives include innovative learning grants of up to $4,000, support for the Teacher Supply Shop, and events like the Impact Awards that celebrate and uplift the extraordinary professionals of WJCC Schools — efforts that are especially critical during the current national teacher shortage.
Read WJCC Schools Foundation Awards Innovative Learning Grants to learn more about the foundation.
