Virginia Names Nottoway Teacher as 2027 Teacher of the Year

Virginia leaders are recognizing one educator’s impact on students and her community, naming Madeline Duffy of Nottoway High School as the 2027 Virginia Teacher of the Year.

Governor Abigail Spanberger made the announcement on May 5, 2026, praising the work teachers do across the Commonwealth and highlighting Duffy’s dedication in the classroom.

“Teachers work tirelessly to create safe learning environments, uplift students, and prepare every member of our next generation for success,” Spanberger said. “Today, we celebrate an extraordinary educator who reflects the tremendous difference these public servants make in the lives of their students.”

Duffy, a special education teacher and Dropout Prevention Coordinator, was first selected as Region 8 Teacher of the Year before being chosen for the statewide honor. She will now represent Virginia in the 2027 National Teacher of the Year competition.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jenna Conway said Duffy’s work reflects the best of education in Virginia.

“As a homegrown educator and proud graduate of Nottoway County Public Schools, Ms. Duffy represents the very best of this profession by demonstrating strong instruction, deep commitment to students, and meaningful leadership,” Conway said.

In her seventh year of teaching, Duffy has built a reputation for helping students succeed both in and out of the classroom. One of her most recognized efforts is the Cougar Café, a student-run program that gives students hands-on experience while building workplace and life skills.

She also focuses on building strong relationships with students and families, making sure each student feels supported and prepared for life after high school.

“I am incredibly honored to be named Virginia’s Teacher of the Year and proud to represent the dedicated educators across our state,” Duffy said. “This recognition reflects the hard work happening in classrooms every day and would not be possible without my students.”

Leaders say her commitment goes beyond academics. Duffy organizes community support efforts, including providing meals for families, and mentors students as an assistant softball coach, helping them build confidence and teamwork.

Secretary of Education Jeffery O. Smith said her influence reaches far beyond her classroom.

“Ms. Duffy exemplifies the excellence, dedication, and leadership that define the teaching profession across the Commonwealth,” Smith said. “Her recognition reflects not only her impact in the classroom, but also her commitment to inspiring students.”

Local school leaders echoed that praise, pointing to her ability to remove barriers and create opportunities for students.

“Ms. Duffy relentlessly removes barriers and creates opportunities that change the trajectory of students’ lives,” said Nottoway County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Marcia H. Martin.

As Virginia’s Teacher of the Year, Duffy will spend the coming year representing educators across the state while preparing for the national competition, which will be held next spring.

For Duffy, the recognition reflects the students she serves each day.

“They are the heart of this achievement, and a constant reminder of why this work truly matters,” she said.

State leaders say her story highlights the important role teachers play in shaping the future—not just for individual students, but for communities across Virginia.

Three former Virginia teachers have been named National Teachers of the Year: Mary V. Bicouvaris, the 1989 Virginia Teacher of the Year; B. Philip Bigler, the 1998 Virginia Teacher of the Year; and Rodney A. Robinson, the 2019 Virginia Teacher of the Year.