Radford High School educator honored as Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year

Lisa Coons Superintendent of Public Instruction | Virginia Department Of Education

Jeff Brown, a biology teacher at Radford High School in Radford City Schools, has been recognized as the 2026 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year for Region 7 by the Virginia Department of Education. Brown has dedicated 28 years to teaching and mentoring students.

"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," stated Emily Anne Gullickson, Acting State Superintendent. She further remarked on the significance of recognizing Brown's impact on students, families, and communities.

Superintendent Adam Joyce of Radford City Schools highlighted Brown's teaching philosophy: "Mr. Brown lives out his core teaching philosophy of making each student feel valued and welcomed in his classroom." Joyce praised Brown's commitment to creating an inclusive environment and closing achievement gaps among students.

Brown holds a bachelor's degree in wildlife management from Virginia Tech and another in biology with an educational license from Radford University.

Radford High School Principal Adam Simpson described Brown as embodying everything sought after 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." Simpson noted that colleagues have used many words of praise to describe Brown but emphasized that he is both an exceptional teacher and human being.

The announcement was made during a surprise visit from Chief of Staff Dr. Jeremy Raley and Executive Director Dr. Christine Harris. As part of this recognition, Brown will join seven other regional Teachers of the Year on a Teacher Advisory Council aimed at amplifying teachers' voices within the VDOE.

These eight regional honorees are also candidates for the 2026 Mary V. Bicouvaris Virginia Teacher of the Year Award, which will be announced in early May.