Kimberly Jones, a reading support teacher at Baldwin Intermediate School in Manassas, has been named the 2024 Mary V. Bicouvaris Teacher of the Year for the school division. Jones, who has been teaching for 12 years and is in her second year at Manassas City, expressed her gratitude for the recognition.
“Earning this recognition is an incredible honor,” Jones said. “It represents my dedication and hard work in education and validates my passion for teaching and fostering student success.”
When asked why she thought she was honored, Jones attributed it to her daily commitment to her students. “I struggle to express why I was selected because I come to school every day with one purpose: to work with children and help them grow,” she said. “Teaching isn’t about seeking recognition for me; it’s a calling that fills me with joy and a sense of purpose. Nevertheless, being honored in this way is touching and affirming.”
Reflecting on her journey to becoming a teacher, Jones shared that her own struggles in education inspired her career path. “I have had a passion for teaching since I was in kindergarten,” she said. “Even then, I used to pretend to be a teacher for my stuffed animals. However, my own struggles in education made me want to become a teacher. It all began with my third-grade teacher, who was relentless in ensuring that I received the support I needed to succeed.”
Jones, 35, offered advice to current teachers and those considering entering the profession. “I strongly recommend teachers form a positive network of fellow educators who can challenge, teach, and motivate them to be their best,” she said. “This allows them to continuously improve their teaching practices and ultimately provide the best possible education for their students. Teaching is challenging, and having a supportive network can make all the difference in navigating the ups and downs.”
The Mary V. Bicouvaris Teacher of the Year Award recognizes outstanding teachers in Virginia who demonstrate excellence in teaching and advocacy for the teaching profession. Named in honor of Mary V. Bicouvaris, the 1989 Virginia Teacher of the Year and 1989 National Teacher of the Year, the award celebrates educators who have made significant contributions to their students, schools, and communities.
Recipients of this award are chosen based on their ability to inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities, their respect and admiration from students, parents, and colleagues, their ability to play an active and useful role in the community as well as in the school, their professional development, and their leadership in improving student learning. The award is a prestigious honor in the Virginia educational community, highlighting the recipient’s commitment to excellence in education.
Recent Stories
Prince William County government offices and facilities will be closed on Monday, January 6, 2025, as officials anticipate potential impacts from adverse weather conditions. The decision was made to ensure…
Fredericksburg Public Works staff has been actively preparing for the winter storm, applying nearly 3,000 gallons of brine solution to roads, bridges, and overpasses, with many treated at least twice….
The Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) has announced that its locations will be closed on Monday, January 6, in anticipation of severe weather. Library officials decided to prioritize the safety of staff and patrons as forecasts predict hazardous conditions throughout the region.
CRRL serves the communities of Fredericksburg, Stafford County, Spotsylvania County, and Westmoreland County through its network of branches. The library system offers an array of services, including access to books, digital resources, educational programs, and community events. With its mission to provide opportunities for learning, growth, and connection, the CRRL has become a cornerstone for residents seeking knowledge and enrichment.
In addition to traditional library services, CRRL provides resources such as free Wi-Fi, public computers, and meeting spaces for local organizations. The library also hosts a variety of programs catering to diverse audiences, including storytimes for children, technology training for adults, and book clubs for all ages.
Due to the winter storm affecting our region and expected significant snow accumulation, Stafford County offices, facilities, courts, public schools, and both locations of the R-Board/Regional Landfill (Eskimo Hill and Belman Road) will be closed on Monday, January 6, 2025.
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra, this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
Featuring:
Travel to French soil and celebrate with us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, wine and music.
What better way to celebrate the end of the 2024 wine harvest in style than at the Embassy of France at DC’s only official celebration?
This is the Wine Event Of The Year!
