FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 21, 2025
communications@doe.virginia.gov
Richmond, VA – Jeff Brown, a biology teacher at Radford City Schools’ Radford High School, has been named the 2026 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year for Region 7 by the Virginia Department of Education. Brown has been a teacher and a mentor for 28 years.
"Jeff Brown’s dedication to his students and his craft exemplifies the qualities that make great teachers. His ability to engage and inspire students, combined with his passion for fostering a positive learning environment, sets him apart as a leader in education,” said Emily Anne Gullickson, Acting State Superintendent. “The Virginia Department of Education is proud to recognize him as the 2026 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year for Region 7. His work is a testament to the profound impact that Virginia teachers can have on the lives of their students, families, and communities.”
“Mr. Brown lives out his core teaching philosophy of making each student feel valued and welcomed in his classroom. It is his goal to make sure students want to return to class every day, even if they aren't thrilled about topics like protein synthesis. Mr. Brown also emphasizes the importance of inclusion and his commitment to closing achievement gaps among students. His classes are engaging and meaningful, fostering an environment where students feel valued, supported, and excited to learn.” said Superintendent of Radford City Schools Adam Joyce.
Brown received a bachelor’s degree in wildlife management from Virginia Tech and a bachelor’s degree in biology – educational license from Radford University.
“Jeff Brown is everything that we look for in a teacher. He is passionate and extremely knowledgeable about his content, he cares deeply for his students as individuals, and he makes learning interesting and fun. His colleagues describe him as kind, friendly, inspiring, fun, enthusiastic, genuine, caring, generous, energetic, thoughtful, engaging, and selfless,” said Radford High School Principal Adam Simpson. “The words of praise could go on and on but the gist is he is a phenomenal teacher and an even better human being. He is certainly worthy of being named the Region VII Teacher of the Year and our students are blessed to have him in their lives.”
The announcement of Brown’s nomination coincided with a surprise visit from Chief of Staff Dr. Jeremy Raley and Executive Director Dr. Christine Harris. Brown 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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