❤️🩵 Michael is the Chesapeake Public Schools 2026 Middle School Teacher of the year! He is an eighth grade math teacher at Crestwood Middle School.
According to a parent, “He embodies everything a great teacher should be: compassionate, committed, and deeply invested in his students’ success..”
Thank you, Mr. Powers, for your dedication and passion for education! #CPSCelebrates #InspireCPS #CPSTOY2026
🦅🩵 Alexis was just named Chesapeake Public Schools 2026 Elementary School Teacher of the Year! Alexis is a fourth grade teacher at Hickory Elementary.
One of her colleagues shared, "Alexis represents the very best of what it means to be a teacher: innovative, collaborative, compassionate, and deeply committed to student success."
Ms. Brueggeman, thank you for your incredible passion, patience, and commitment to your students! #CPSCelebrates #InspireCPS #CPSTOY2026
These remarkable educators demonstrate outstanding commitment and creativity in their classrooms daily, transforming the lives of countless students. Their tireless efforts inspire our entire community!
📅 Join us TONIGHT for our Celebration Ceremony! 🕡 December 11 at 6:30 PM 📍 Indian River High School
Come celebrate these amazing teachers and show them the recognition they deserve! We can't wait to see you there! 👏
#CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
A Savannah College of Art and Design alum, Mr. Burke brings 21 years of teaching experience to Chesapeake Public Schools, having taught 18 years at the high school level before bringing his magic to elementary students. His innovative spirit shows through his achievements: He wrote the curriculum for the first-ever animation course in Portsmouth Public Schools, sponsored award-winning animation clubs, and is a two-time recipient of innovator grants! 🎨
Mr. Burke's philosophy is as unique as his teaching: "A Big Mac shouldn't compare itself to a Whopper, make your own Flavor! And create something the world has never tasted."
His superpower? Silliness! His advice to fellow educators? "No job is stressful if you're prepared... Have a great lesson plan, work it out and run it through 3-4 times and you will have a classroom that is buzzing!"
Mr. Burke, thank you for 21 years of innovation, creativity, and joy! You remind us that learning should be fun and unforgettable! 💙💛
#CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
With degrees from William & Mary and Old Dominion University, including a PhD in Education from ODU, Dr. Fischer brings an impressive 30 years of experience to the classroom. For the past 12 years, he has also served as Youth in Government sponsor and boys tennis coach at WBHS. He gains energy from inspiring students to dive deeper into government, philosophy, history, and especially tennis! 🎾
Dr. Fischer's approach to teaching is all about authentic relationships. He believes in getting to know students beyond the superficial, sharing stories, and truly listening to theirs. His philosophy? "I look for humor in most situations and don't take myself too seriously, but I take my job as a teacher and coach very seriously."
A colleague beautifully captures his impact: "His humility, generosity, and passion for teaching are qualities that set him apart as a leader and advocate for student success."
Dr. Fischer, thank you for 30 years of inspiring minds, building connections, and making learning an adventure! 💙💛
#CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
🎙️ We’re kicking off a new special podcast series: Hall Pass to History!
Each episode spotlights one of our schools and connects traditions of the past with the voices of today. Our first episode celebrates Great Bridge High School, released today, which also coincides with the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Great Bridge.
Hear from:
🐾 Marcy Stambaugh, student and second-generation Wildcat
🏫 Bob Robinson, retired principal
⭐ Karen Black, current principal
Together, they share stories of leadership, belonging, and the tradition and pride that continues to shape Great Bridge students today.
🎧 Listen now at cpschools.com/amplified or wherever you get your podcasts! #CPSCelebrates #EmpowerCPS
A graduate of Grassfield High School and Old Dominion University, Mrs. McNeal brings fresh energy and innovation to her four years in education. She has been recognized as one of our district's "Canvas Champions" for her exceptional use of technology to enhance learning!
Mrs. McNeal's teaching philosophy is powerful yet simple: there are no limitations in her classroom. Every challenge becomes an opportunity for resilience, creativity, and problem-solving. Her superpower is creativity because she connects with and inspires her students through engaging, dynamic approaches both inside and outside the classroom.
Movement is essential in Mrs. McNeal's classroom, fostering active engagement and joyful learning. She is also celebrated for her passion and dedication to teaching within the EL community, ensuring every student feels welcomed and empowered.
Mrs. McNeal, thank you for showing your students that they are capable of anything and for making learning an adventure every single day! 💙🩵#CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
❄️Due to potential for freezing road conditions, Chesapeake Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. Visit our website for additional details: http://cpschools.com/emergency
Be sure to get important weather, closing, or delay notifications with our district app and turn on "Push Notifications." You can also follow your school and receive important updates, events, and more.
📱Download for Android: https://bit.ly/4pncEZl
📱Download for iPhone: https://apple.co/3KcIghX
With degrees from Wayne State University, San Jose State University, and Old Dominion University, Ms. S. brings 13 years of passion to education.
Her dedication to education extends far beyond our community: Ms. Spurlin-Saravanan is the recipient of the prestigious 2025-2026 Fulbright Teacher Exchange Award!
She notes that her superpower is her belief that everyone deserves to be seen and heard. She creates a classroom culture built on well-being, encouragement, and community where every student feels valued.
A former student shares: "Ms. S. is an incredibly hardworking and caring educator who gave me the tools to become a successful college student and a responsible, educated young adult. I could not be more grateful that I had the chance to be one of her students. Ms. S. has impacted and continues to impact my life in every positive way imaginable."
Ms. Spurlin-Saravanan, thank you for seeing each student, celebrating their voice, and creating a space where everyone belongs! 💙🩵 #CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
For the latest updates and additional information, visit https://www.cpschools.com/emergency
A proud Hickory High School graduate and Elizabeth City State University alum, Mrs. Spiva has dedicated 20 years to education, teaching Physical Science and Pre-Algebra. Her enthusiasm, positivity, and dedication have earned her the Essential Piece and Helping Hand awards for helping every Hawk shine.
Mrs. Spiva's superpower is her positive energy and saving the day is what she does best. From opening lockers with pliers to finding missing homework, hemming pants, gluing on nails, and even rescuing a broken shoe with hot glue, she does it all!
When she's not dressing up for spirit days, Mrs. Spiva becomes "GiGi," playing with her grandson and spending quality time with her family.
A colleague shares, "Mrs. Spiva is one of the kindest souls you will ever meet."
Thank you, Mrs. Spiva, for your boundless energy, creativity, and heart! You make Hickory Middle School an incredible place to learn and grow! 🦅🩵 #CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
🌟 Please join us in honoring Alexis Brueggeman, 4th grade teacher at Hickory Elementary School, as a Teacher of the Year finalist!
An Old Dominion University graduate, Mrs. Brueggeman has touched countless lives over her 9-year career in education. She spent her first four years teaching fifth graders before finding her home in fourth grade, where she has taught for the past five years.
What sets Mrs. Brueggeman apart? She calls herself a memory maker and confidence planter. She nurtures self-confidence in every student and creates classroom moments that last a lifetime. She transforms learning into adventures that help students discover their potential inside the classroom and beyond.
Her fellow teachers call her a master of technology and the queen of keeping everything running smoothly! Mrs. Brueggeman also leads her grade level team as chair and guides social studies instruction throughout the school.
Mrs. Brueggeman, thank you for creating magic in your classroom every day! 🦅🩵 #CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
🌟We are proud to recognize Teacher of the year finalist Heather Febus, Title I Instructional Coach at Georgetown Primary!🌟
Mrs. Febus brings 16 years of dedication to education, having served students and teachers in various K-5 roles including kindergarten and first grade teacher, Assistant Principal, and now Instructional Coach. A graduate of Old Dominion University, she has made a lasting impact across every role she's taken on.
At the heart of Mrs. Febus's teaching philosophy is building relationships. She strives to know each teacher and student as an individual, and her superpower is connection. Her favorite teaching memories? Those candid conversations with students that turn into teachable moments.
Fun facts about Mrs. Febus: She still loves jumping on the trampoline with her boys and karaoke always has a place at the Febus house! 🎤
Thank you, Mrs. Febus, for your commitment to our students, teachers, and school community. Your passion for education inspires us all! 💙🩵 #CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
For 13 years, Mrs. Meier has been sharing her infectious love for learning with her students. Now teaching 8th grade physical science at Greenbrier Middle School, this 2009 Western Branch High School graduate and East Carolina University Alumni brings enthusiasm to the classroom every single day.
"My love for children has charted my career path," she shares. "My cup is full as I watch my students achieve success." Mrs. Meier creates a positive environment that challenges her students to learn, grow, and develop into confident young adults.
Her advice to fellow educators? "Face each day as a new day with enthusiasm. This sets the tone for a daily fresh start, and students will respond accordingly."
Thank you for 13 years of dedication and inspiring future scientists, Mrs. Meier! 💚🩶 #CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
🎉 Shout out to Teacher of the Year Finalist: Chauncey Foreman! 🎉
For 7 years, Mr. Foreman has been transforming lives through teaching. Now, he's come full circle: inspiring students at Deep Creek HS, the very place where he graduated in 2012. This Liberty University graduate and history teacher is dedicated to showing students what's possible beyond high school.
He helps students see their potential through mentorship and real-world connections. As co-founder of Men of Excellence, a life-changing mentoring group, and recipient of the WTKR People Taking Action Award for his inspiring COVID-era music video, Mr. Foreman leads by example.
Words from his former teacher still guide him: "Do what you can and let everything else work itself out."
Join us in celebrating Mr. Foreman! 💜🤍 #CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
For 8 years, Ms. Lemm has been pouring her heart into educating the next generation. Currently, a first grade teacher at Deep Creek Central, this Indian River High Class of 2013 graduate and JMU degree holder knows what matters most: the beautiful relationships and trust she builds with every student and family. "No matter what happens, I'm always in their corner."
Her advice? "Learning follows connection. Create a safe space where students feel loved first. They have to feel it to believe it."
When she's not teaching, she's curled up with a good book, cheering on her favorite teams, or making memories with family and friends.
Congratulations, Ms. Lemm! 💜🤍 #CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
🚌 Join the Chesapeake Public Schools Team!
We're hiring for multiple classified positions at our ONE STOP Job Fair. Come prepared to interview on the spot!
📅 Wednesday, December 10
⏰ 11 AM - 2 PM
📍 School Administration Building
💼 Now Hiring:
Bus Drivers
School Nutrition Workers
Custodians
Substitute Teachers
📋 Bring With You:
Two forms of ID (all applicants)
Transcript copies (substitute teacher applicants)
❗ This is your chance to become part of the CPS family! We can't wait to meet you.
💻 Learn more and explore additional opportunities at: https://www.cpschools.com/careers
🎉 Celebrating Our Teacher of the Year Finalist: Michael Powers, Jr.! 🎉
Mr. Powers is an 8th grade math teacher at Crestwood Middle School. For 8 years, Michael has been transforming the way students see themselves and mathematics. A proud graduate of Indian River High School (Class of 2007) and Old Dominion University, he brings both hometown heart and impressive credentials to the classroom, including experience as a former NASA Faculty Fellow and two-time National Science Foundation Summer Research Intern.
One of his proudest moments was watching a student persevere after initially failing their Math SOL, then bouncing back to pass on the second attempt - a powerful reminder that growth and resilience matter just as much as the final result.
Michael's wisdom to fellow educators says it all: "Always be yourself. Authenticity creates trust, connection, and genuine learning."
Please join us in celebrating Mr. Powers and the incredible impact he makes on our students every single day! ❤️🩵📐 #CPSCelebrates #CPSTOY2026
For 25 years, Mrs. Solis has been a dedicated Chesapeake Public Schools educator. Currently, she teaches 2nd grade at Chittum Elementary. Inspired by her own 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Pritchard, she's spent over two decades making learning fun and meaningful for countless students.
Her superpower? Empathy. She plans every lesson with her students at the forefront of her mind, understanding that each group brings unique personalities and learning styles.
This James Madison University and Old Dominion University graduate knows that "every year is a fresh start," and she approaches each one with the same passion that sparked her love of teaching all those years ago.
When she's not shaping young minds, you'll find her cheering on her own children from the sidelines- whether it's at baseball fields, dance studios, or volleyball courts.
Mrs. Solis, thank you for 25 years of making a difference where it matters most! 💙💛 #CPSTOY2026 #CPSCelebrates
For 6 years, Mrs. Ratz has been a beacon of kindness at B.M. Williams Elementary, teaching English Language Learners in grades K-5. Her superpower? Giving students the universal language of kindness and love.
Her commitment to leading with kindness earned her the Virginia Department of Education's Ambassador of Kindness Award 2025, and her impact extends far beyond academics. As she reminds us: "You may be the very best part of their day and the only positive impact they may have that day. You will change lives!"
This Liberty University grad loves fishing, backpacking through the mountains, and cheering on her college football team with her incredible husband and three remarkable kids.
Congratulations, Mrs. Ratz! 💙💛 #CPSTOY2026 #CPSCelebrates
