NKCPS is proud to announce its 2026 Teachers of the Year, honoring exceptional educators who exemplify dedication, innovation, and passion in their classrooms and beyond. These individuals have made a significant impact on their students, colleagues, and the entire NKCPS community.

George W. Watkins Elementary School: Ms. Kelsie Schmidt

Ms. Kelsie Schmidt is celebrated for her innovative and compassionate approach to Pre-K education. Her calm demeanor and unwavering commitment create a nurturing environment where young learners feel valued and excited about school. Ms. Schmidt goes above and beyond to support her students, adapting her methods to meet their needs and fostering a love of learning.

Superintendent Dr. Brian J. Nichols hands Ms. Kelsie Schmidt flowers and a card in her classroom shortly after she was announced as the GWES Teacher of the Year.

"Ms. Schmidt is kind, hardworking, humble, and has her students' best interests in mind," stated GWES Principal Ms. Tammy Krejcarek. "She is innovative and adapts when challenges come her way. She is committed to helping every student thrive, and you can immediately feel her love for her students when you walk into her classroom."

Beyond the classroom, Ms. Schmidt serves as a leader within the school community, chairing the yearbook and teacher advisory committees. Her ability to handle challenges with grace and bring positivity to her colleagues makes her an invaluable member of the Wildcat team.

New Kent Elementary School: Ms. Sally Cochran

Ms. Cochran is one of the amazing school counselors at NKES, making a profound impact on students and the community. As the school's Teacher of the Year, she exemplifies exceptional dedication to student well-being and growth. Ms. Cochran provides comprehensive support through engaging morning meetings and topic-specific lessons, while also offering both group and individual counseling tailored to student needs.

Ms. Cochran holds her flowers and smiles in front of the "I Put the 'I' in Kind" sign in the River Otters' cafeteria.

Her approach ensures that every child feels loved, supported, and confident, knowing they have a trusted advocate at NKES. "Ms. Cochran's calm demeanor and compassionate presence put students and adults at ease, making NKES a more accepting and loving place every day!" shared NKES Principal Dr. Therese O'Dea. Her commitment to student mental health and social-emotional learning goes far beyond traditional counseling, creating a supportive environment where students can thrive.

Quinton Elementary School: Ms. Lauren Laws

Ms. Lauren Laws exemplifies passion and innovation in her teaching at QES. While transitioning with her students from third to fourth grade this year, she continually designs engaging lessons that inspire a love of learning. Ms. Laws creates an inclusive classroom environment where every student feels supported and valued.

Ms. Laws smiles with her fourth grade students in their classroom.

"Ms. Laws is dedicated to her students and their success. She brings a passion to education that is so desperately needed," stated QES Principal Ms. Chris Pilger. "Every lesson is engaging and full of hands-on, authentic activities. Her students and their families adore her! Each day she fosters a love of lifelong learning in all of her students."

As a colleague, Ms. Laws is known for her unwavering support, positivity, and teamwork. She is a role model for fostering collaboration and bringing joy to even the most challenging days. Her dedication to students and staff alike makes her a standout educator.

New Kent Middle School: Ms. Rachel Fini

Since joining NKMS in 2022, Ms. Rachel Fini has transformed the theatre program into a thriving curriculum that engages students across all grade levels. She stages professional-quality productions, teaches technical theatre skills, and provides her students with opportunities for enrichment through organizations like the Junior International Thespian Society and the Virginia Theatre Association.

A student gives Ms. Fini a congratulatory hug after the announcement that the theatre teacher is the NKMS Teacher of the Year.

As noted in her nomination form, a colleague wrote that "Ms. Fini spends countless hours after school and on the weekends to build sets, offer students enrichment, and prepare for lessons. She prepares her students well for their high school theatre experience, and the high school has praised her for how much her students have learned here at the middle school."

Ms. Fini's commitment to her students extends far beyond the classroom. Whether working on scenery, mentoring young actors, or fostering an inclusive theatre community, she inspires confidence and creativity in every student.

New Kent High School: Ms. Leigh Anne Jordon

Ms. Leigh Anne Jordon represents excellence in education at NKHS. Known for her versatile teaching methods and inclusive classroom environment, she ensures every student has the tools to succeed. Ms. Jordon builds strong relationships with her students, advocating for their growth and supporting them in their academic and extracurricular endeavors.

Ms. Jordon and the NKHS administrators (Mr. Leech, Ms. James, and Ms. Strickland) pose in front of the New Kent Trojans sign and balloon arch.

"She volunteers her time, generates innovative ideas, and provides a positive perspective for school-led activities," shared NKHS Principal Ms. Allison Strickland. "Her contributions extend beyond the classroom, and she is truly an asset to us all."

Ms. Jordon's commitment to her students and colleagues embodies the spirit of NKCPS and makes her an invaluable member of the Trojan faculty.

District-Level Announcement

The NKCPS District 2026 Teacher of the Year will be announced on Wednesday, December 18th. This distinguished educator will go on to represent the district in the Regional Teacher of the Year competition.

The 2026 Teachers of the Year embody our district's mission to inspire, challenge, and support every student. These exceptional educators have transformed their classrooms into vibrant learning communities and continue to make a lasting impact across the district.

Congratulations to the NKCPS 2026 Teachers of the Year!