Photos courtesy of RCPS
Heather Bell
RADFORD – Jeff Brown, a science teacher at Radford High School, has been chosen as the Radford City Public Schools Teacher of the Year.
“The RCPS Division Teacher of the Year was selected from the outstanding educators chosen as school-level Teachers of the Year,” said RCPS Assistant Superintendent Melissa McDaniel, Ed.D. “Each school’s Teacher of the Year submitted an application that included five essays, three letters of recommendation, and additional supporting materials for review by the selection committee. The committee carefully evaluated the applications, conducted interviews with all candidates, and ultimately selected the overall RCPS Division Teacher of the Year.”
With many exceptional candidates, the decision was challenging,” she continued. “However, Mr. Jeff Brown was chosen as the RCPS Teacher of the Year.”
“Mr. Brown is known for being a mentor and an inspiration to his students, colleagues, and the community. Not only is he an excellent educator, but he also goes above and beyond to support his students both in and out of the classroom.”
During his interview with the committee, Brown spoke about the “Disney-fication” of his classroom.
“My guiding belief became this: if I can make every student feel welcomed and valued, they’ll want to return to class—even if they aren’t thrilled about topics like protein synthesis,” he said
“His classes are engaging and meaningful, creating an environment where students feel valued and excited to learn,” said McDaniel.
“We are incredibly proud of all the teachers who received this recognition,” she added.
To celebrate their achievements, the Radford City School Board office hosted a reception in honor of all of the school level finalists before the January school board meeting. The other finalists included McHarg first grade teacher Katie Bondurant, Belle Heth art teacher Michelle Saunders and John Dalton Intermediate School reading specialist Kelly Morris.
Brown has completed the 2026 Mary V. Bicouvaris Virginia Teacher of the Year application and is now being considered for the Region 7 and Virginia Teacher of the Year honors.
