Lisa Coons Superintendent of Public Instruction | Virginia Department Of Education
Yesterday, Matthew Neale, a high school teacher from Hidden Valley High School in Roanoke County Public Schools, was named the 2026 Virginia Teacher of the Year. The announcement took place at a ceremony hosted by Governor Glenn Youngkin on Capitol Square. Neale had previously been selected as Region 6 Teacher of the Year and will now represent Virginia in the 2026 National Teacher of the Year competition.
Governor Glenn Youngkin remarked, "Teachers shape the future, inspire excellence, and create an environment where students can thrive. Congratulations to Matthew Neale! Virginia’s future is brighter because of your commitment and dedication to your students."
Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction Emily Anne Gullickson praised Neale as "a passionate advocate for students" with a "relentless commitment to excellence in and out of the classroom." She added that he will continue to be an excellent ambassador for the teaching profession.
The selection process involved interviews with eight regional winners, after which a committee chose Neale as Region 6 Teacher of the Year. This committee included representatives from educational institutions, businesses, and school divisions. The award recognizes teachers who demonstrate exceptional classroom performance and leadership within the education community.
Matthew Neale expressed his gratitude by saying, "Teaching is one of the most noble and challenging professions there is. I am incredibly honored to be named Virginia’s Teacher of the Year but even more proud to stand alongside so many amazing teachers across the State."
Neale has over 20 years of teaching experience and has spent 14 years at Hidden Valley High School. Before entering education, he practiced law specializing in complex litigation but found his calling in teaching upon moving to Southwest Virginia.
At Hidden Valley High School, Neale revitalized its journalism program, mentoring students in writing and storytelling. He is known for his 'ASK' philosophy: Approachable, Standards, and Kindness. Additionally, he leads an opioid awareness initiative at his school in partnership with the Roanoke County Prevention Council.
As Teacher of the Year, Neale will serve as an ambassador for excellent teaching while representing Virginia nationally. Grace Turner Creasey, President of the Virginia Board of Education stated, “On behalf of the Virginia Board of Education, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Matthew Neale on this well-deserved honor.”
Other regional Teachers of the Year were also recognized during the event:
- Rachel Tate from Goochland High School
- Deana Hubbell from Carrsville Elementary School
- James Eccleston from Gloucester High
- Sharon Phox from James K. Polk Elementary
- Karen Grady from A.R. Ware Elementary
- Jeff Brown from Radford High
- Charles Motter from Cumberland Middle School
A reception followed where Governor Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin honored all regional teachers.
The 2026 National Teacher of the Year will be announced next spring at a White House ceremony. Historically, three previous Virginia teachers have been named National Teachers of the Year: Mary V. Bicouvaris (1989), B. Philip Bigler (1998), and Rodney A. Robinson (2019).
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