Each year Cumberland County Public Schools participates in the Mary V. Bicouvaris Virginia Teacher of the Year Program to honor teachers who represent the best in teaching in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation. Each school selects a School Teacher of the Year. From this pool, a Division Teacher of the Year is selected.
School Teachers of the Year are nominated by their peers, but must meet the following criteria:
• Inspires the love of learning in students of all backgrounds and abilities;
• Has concern for individual students;
• Displays the ability and willingness to work cooperatively with fellow professionals;
• Works effectively with the community;
• Remains abreast of current educational theories and practices;
• Is willing and able to make contributions to the field of education; and
• Has demonstrated innovative practices initiated by the candidate.
Mrs. Samantha Hatcher was selected Teacher of the Year for Cumberland Elementary School, Mr. Charlie Motter was selected for Cumberland Middle School, and Dr. Tracey Wade was selected for the High School.
The Division Teacher of the Year was Mr. Charlie Motter, who will represent Cumberland as he strives to become the District Teacher of the Year. District winners will then compete to become State Teacher of the Year for 2026.
Mrs. Samantha Hatcher was named CCES Teacher of the Year, and Mr. Charlie Motter was named CMS Teacher of the Year as well as Division Teacher of the Year.
Dr. Tracey Wade, being congratulated by Superintendent Chip Jones, was named CHS Teacher of the Year.