Over $21,000 awarded by Schools Foundation to Educators at 2025 Impact Awards

WILLIAMSBURG, VA — May 7, 2025 — The WJCC Schools Foundation proudly awarded more than $21,000 to Williamsburg-James City County (WJCC) Public Schools teachers and staff during its annual Impact Awards Ceremony, held 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 exceptional 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 (CCSSO), 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 generous $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.

The evening featured tribute videos, as well as live remarks from:

  • Dr. Daniel Keever, WJCC Schools Superintendent
  • Sarah Ortego, WJCC School Board Chair
  • Tab Broyles, Director of Education Outreach and Engagement for the Bob and Marion Wilson Teacher Institute at Colonial Williamsburg
  • Mr. Sean Walker, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary School Leadership
  • Dr. Catherine Worley, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary School Leadership
  • Penny Pulley, Chair, WJCC Schools Foundation

Award categories included:

  • Teachers of the Year
  • Support Employees of the Year
  • Elementary and Secondary Schools Employees of the Year
  • Central Office and Operations Employees of the Year
  • Division-Wide Employees of the Year

“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.