Williamsburg-James City County Schools names teachers of the year

At one point as a child, Ellen Frackelton had trouble reading. She remembers feeling like the only one who didn’t understand what was going on.

But she got lucky, she said. With help, she overcame her struggles, and the experience led her to choose a profession in which she’d help others to read.

“It really kind of drove me to focus on wanting to support students and families and making sure that all kids have the opportunity to be successful when it comes to literacy,” she said.

Now, Frackelton’s work with children has resulted in her being named both the elementary school and the division-wide Teacher of the Year for Williamsburg-James City County Schools. She was among the teachers across every level who were recently recognized by the school division. Michelle Dana, a social studies teacher at Toano Middle School, was named middle school Teacher of the Year while Carrie Moore, a French teacher at Lafayette High School, was chosen as high school Teacher of the Year.

Frackelton’s passion and commitment are just some of the attributes she brings to her job, said Laurel Lane Elementary Principal Karen Swann.

“Ms. Frackelton is an exceptional educator and deserving of this recognition,” Swann said. “It is always a treat to celebrate those who love what they do, model and share it with others, and make a difference.”

Frackelton, who has been teaching with WJCC Schools for 12 years, said that one day at school is never the same as the next. On any given weekday, she’ll find herself co-teaching lessons with other educators. She also works individually with students who may need additional reading help.

“It’s really amazing to see students progress from kindergarten, first grade and second grade and then into the upper elementary grades,” Frackelton said. “I get to kind of travel with kids throughout their whole elementary journey, which is just — it’s a privilege to be able to do that.”

Helping her students to develop strong foundational literacy skills is Frackelton’s passion. She considers her work a social justice issue that she has dedicated herself to learning as much as she can about to help all of her students succeed.

Frackelton was selected as division Teacher of the Year from among the three division-level teachers of the year for elementary, middle and high schools. While she said she’s honored and surprised to be recognized, she said the annual awards are really a team effort.

“The dedication and drive that the teachers have, it’s just remarkable,” Frackelton said. “It’s overwhelming and exciting to have this, but I hope I can do it justice.”

Dana, who has been a teacher for seven years, also credited her fellow educators, from whom she said she continues to learn.

“I first dreamed of being a teacher at the age of six, and I was influenced by many teachers during my time in Williamsburg-James City County Schools,” Dana said. “Education is my passion, and being named Teacher of the Year has only reminded me of how important this dream of mine is.”

Dana said she wouldn’t be the teacher she is today without the help and support of her school.

“I know how dedicated and passionate my colleagues throughout the division are, and I only wish for each educator in this division to know how important they are to our students, families and communities,” she said. “This honor reminds me that I am in the right place and will continue to impact the lives of students. I hope I can encourage others to find or continue their dream of being an educator.”

Moore, who’s been an educator for 20 years, said she was blessed to be supported by her school family and to have had the opportunity to encourage a love of learning French. Being named the high school Teacher of the Year is an honor, she said.

“I especially enjoy working with other language teachers and students to develop a passion for new cultures, international travel and speaking French,” Moore said. “How exciting it is to see students embrace the French language and help them grow into life-long learners of French.”

The other teachers of the year include:

Elementary school

Roxane Gray, first grade teacher at James River; William Geise, fifth grade teacher at Matoaka; Kylee Johnson, third grade teacher at Matthew Whaley; Kathryn Tighe, second grade teacher at D.J. Montague; Elizabeth Hoffman, second grade teacher at J. Blaine Blayton; Carolyn Estes, fifth grade teacher at Stonehouse; Caroline Finchum, language teacher at Clara Byrd Baker; AnnaLeah Wiggins, art teacher at Norge; and Sara Clark, a pre-K teacher at Bright Beginnings.

Middle school

Patrice Lambusta, librarian at James Blair; Matthew Sanderson, theater teacher at Lois S. Hornsby; and Amanda Fay, seventh and eighth grade social studies teacher at Berkeley.

High school

John King, Advanced Placement human geography teacher at Warhill; and Jennifer Roman, earth science, biology and oceanography teacher at Jamestown.

“Our teachers make a difference every day by igniting an enduring passion for learning in each of our students,” WJCC Schools Superintendent Olwen Herron said in a statement. “Our teachers work hard every day to bring students’ dreams to life. We’re so excited to celebrate these exceptional educators.”

More information on all the teachers can be found at wjccschools.org/about-wjcc/achievements/toy.

Dominic Catacora, dominic.catacora@virginiamedia.com, 757-798-9833