RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia Department of Education announced today that Deedra Robinson, a Jefferson-Houston PreK–8 IB School educator, has been named the 2027 Region 4 Teacher of the Year — recognizing her impact in preparing students for success as they begin their postsecondary pathways.
“We are incredibly proud to see one of our teachers recognized by the Virginia Department of Education for the second year in a row,” said Alexandria City Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt. “Ms. Deedra Robinson represents the excellence, care and dedication that define ACPS, and we are proud to celebrate the meaningful impact she continues to make on her students and our community.”
Robinson serves as an AVID teacher at Jefferson-Houston in Alexandria City Public Schools. Throughout her career, she has focused on helping students develop the organizational skills, study strategies, and confidence needed to succeed in rigorous academic environments.
“Mrs. Robinson’s impact extends far beyond the classroom,” said Jefferson-Houston PreK-8 IB School Principal Dr. Adaarema Kelly. “Through her leadership in Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) and her deep belief in every student’s potential, she has created a culture of excellence, access and opportunity. She empowers students to see themselves as scholars and leaders, and that is the true mark of an extraordinary educator.”
She has played a key role in implementing the AVID readiness program schoolwide, helping students strengthen their academic habits while preparing for postsecondary success. In addition to classroom instruction, Robinson mentors elementary AVID teachers and tutors.
“Deedra Robinson’s decades of service and commitment to empowering students as they begin their postsecondary journey highlight the transformative impact of education,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jenna Conway. “Her work ensures students are prepared not only academically but for a future poised with opportunity.”
Robinson will represent Region 4, Northern Virginia, in the statewide Virginia Teacher of the Year selection process.
About AVID
AVID, or Advancement Via Individual Determination, has a mission to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society. These students are often in the “academic middle” and are typically members of an under-enrolled sub-group in four-year higher education institutions. Read more about the AVID program on Jefferson-Houston’s website.
Virginia Teacher of the Year Overview
The Mary V. Bicouvaris Virginia Teacher of the Year Program honors teachers who represent the best in teaching in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation. The program provides school divisions with the opportunity to recognize outstanding teachers and to focus positive public attention on education and the teaching profession. Those who are selected as Regional Teachers of the Year, Teacher of the Year, or National Teacher of the Year become ambassadors for education and enjoy a lifetime of positive memories.
