When it comes to excellence in teaching, the University of Mary Washington was recently honored for A+ achievement by the Virginia Association of Colleges and Teacher Educators (VACTE).
Three UMW College of Education members received awards for their exceptional efforts. Grace Sylvia, who is pursuing a Master of Education degree, took Outstanding Student in a Virginia Advance Preparation Program; Sarah Batchelor ’24 accepted Outstanding Student in a Virginia Licensure Program and Associate Professor of Education Christy Irish won the Faculty Impact Award.
VACTE bestowed the honors at its spring conference held in early April at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland. From pre-service through veteran teachers, VACTE is a key voice for development and support in the teaching profession at the local, state and national levels.
“UMW is beyond proud that Sarah and Grace have been recognized by VACTE,” Irish said of her fellow award-winners. “They have excelled in their academics at Mary Washington, but moreover, they are now excelling as new teachers in the community. The College of Education looks forward to continuing to work side-by-side with them as they lead students in their own classrooms.”
After receiving a large and competitive pool of applications from institutions across the Commonwealth, the VACTE awards committee assessed candidates for levels of scholarship, endorsements from administrators and experience working with children or young adults. They rewarded those who showed exceptional work and scholarship, as well as made a difference in their community.
“Christy Irish won this award based on the enormous impact she makes on her students preparing to be teachers,” said College of Education Dean Pete Kelly. “I see the effect she has on them, and I’m so grateful to see her recognized with this state-level award.”
Batchelor, who is now employed as a teacher for Stafford County Public Schools, agrees. During the nomination process, she designated Irish as the faculty member who had the most significant impact on her education and career readiness.
“I feel as though any student in her class will walk away feeling as though they are one of her favorites since she takes the time to talk and get to know each of us,” Batchelor said. “Her dedication to her students is truly amazing.”
Grateful for the preparation, mentorship and hands-on training she received, Batchelor said Mary Washington provided a solid foundation for how to best support student learning and allowed her to work closely with teachers currently in the classroom, providing more depth to coursework.
Sylvia said she feels similarly. “I have learned so much through UMW’s College of Education and wouldn’t be the teacher I am today without help and guidance from amazing professors.”
These types of inspirational educators include Irish, who said the VACTE honor she received was especially meaningful to her because it was student-nominated.
“It’s a joy and privilege to teach students like Sarah and Grace,” she said, “and it’s exciting when the students graduate, join the education community, and we continue to grow and partner together.”