FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 11, 2025
communications@doe.virginia.gov
Richmond, Va. – James Eccleston, a social studies teacher at Gloucester County Public Schools’ Gloucester High School, has been named the 2026 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year (Region 3) by the Virginia Department of Education. Eccleston has been a teacher and a mentor for nearly forty years.
“It is a true honor to recognize a career educator like Mr. Eccleston," said Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons. "He inspires, engages, and connects his students to his lessons by bringing history to life. Mr. Eccleston makes history both relatable and relevant to his students by arranging field trips, connecting the past to current events, and inviting guest speakers to his classroom. He has not only taught history but helped his students see themselves in it. His dedication and passion will have a lasting impact on generations. Congratulations on being named a Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year, I am pleased to celebrate your success today."
“Mr. Eccleston represents the best in all of us,” said Gloucester County Public Schools Superintendent Anthony Vladu. “After nearly 40 years in the classroom, he carries the optimism of a new teacher while mastering the craft that is built on positive relationships, hands-on history, and memories that will last a lifetime. He has shaped generations of Dukes, many of whom still remember him as their favorite teacher.”
Eccleston has spent almost his entire career as a social studies teacher at Gloucester High School, dedicating 38 of the 39 years he’s been an educator to finding ways to interest and inspire Gloucester High School students with a love for history and government. An engaging, hands-on educator, Eccleston brings history to life for his students. His classroom is often described as a “museum” because it contains numerous historical artifacts, including photographs, newspapers, military uniforms, flags, and other items he has collected over the years. These artifacts, combined with his extensive knowledge of history, help his students gain a deep understanding of important historical events.
In addition to his teaching role, Eccleston is a Seasonal Park Ranger and Living History Volunteer for the Colonial National Historical Park in Yorktown, Virginia. Eccleston received his bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Arizona and his master’s degree in education from the University of California, Los Angeles.
“Mr. Eccleston has an extensive knowledge of history and a deep passion for sharing it with his students,” said Gloucester High School Principal Stefan Mygas. “He is also an exceptionally kind, friendly, and caring person to everyone that he meets. These characteristics have made him universally admired and respected at GHS and in the Gloucester community. He is truly an outstanding teacher who has made a tremendous impact on thousands of students during his career.”
The announcement of Eccleston’s nomination coincided with a surprise visit from Superintendent Coons, VDOE Chief of Staff Jeremy Raley, and VDOE Chief Operating Officer Christina Berta. Eccleston and the seven other regional Teachers of the Year will join a Teacher Advisory Council, helping elevate the voices and perspectives of all Virginia teachers on VDOE’s work.
All eight Regional Teachers of the Year are nominees for the 2026 Mary V. Bicouvaris Virginia Teacher of the Year Award. The final Virginia Teacher of the Year Award will be announced in early May.
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