Chesterfield Schools surprises its 2025 Teacher of the Year

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- On Tuesday, Chesterfield County Public Schools surprised a special teacher at Davis Elementary School by telling her she was 2025's Teacher of the Year. Around noon on Tuesday, Jan. 28, reading specialist Maria Meyers got the amazing news that she was this year's Teacher of the Year. 8News was there as CCPS leaders surprised Meyers with flowers, balloons and a banner to celebrate this accomplishment. 2025 Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski) Meyers received a bachelor's degree from Florida State University, a master's degree from Plymouth State University and a reading specialist certificate from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has taught for Virtual Virginia, as well as schools in Tennessee, South Carolina, Mississippi and Florida prior to her start at Davis Elementary in 2023. According to CCPS, Meyers is known for motivating her students towards success. "Maria Meyers has a passion for literacy and growing student and teacher knowledge," said Davis Elementary principal Kenya Batts. "She is extremely knowledgeable and digs in to make sure we all have what we need. She is kind, patient and willing to go the extra mile to help everyone! Maria’s passion for literacy is contagious, and it makes us all want to be better." Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski) Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski) Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski) Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski) 8News spoke with Meyers about her teaching approach. "While there are bigger and broader ways that I have connected with students and the community … the most basic and foundational way that I truly connect with students and the community is through regular, positive interactions," Meyers said. "The impact of a kind word and a smile can uplift those around you. Remembering a student’s plans for the weekend or the name of a sibling generates trust and connection. A friendly wave in the morning car rider loop to parents and caregivers cultivates a culture of care. It does not take a large sum of money, or even time and energy, to show the kindness that others need to feel connected and safe enough to try to do their best.”

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- On Tuesday, Chesterfield County Public Schools surprised a special teacher at Davis Elementary School by telling her she was 2025's Teacher of the Year.

Around noon on Tuesday, Jan. 28, reading specialist Maria Meyers got the amazing news that she was this year's Teacher of the Year.

8News was there as CCPS leaders surprised Meyers with flowers, balloons and a banner to celebrate this accomplishment.

2025 Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski)

Meyers received a bachelor's degree from Florida State University, a master's degree from Plymouth State University and a reading specialist certificate from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has taught for Virtual Virginia, as well as schools in Tennessee, South Carolina, Mississippi and Florida prior to her start at Davis Elementary in 2023.

According to CCPS, Meyers is known for motivating her students towards success.

"Maria Meyers has a passion for literacy and growing student and teacher knowledge," said Davis Elementary principal Kenya Batts. "She is extremely knowledgeable and digs in to make sure we all have what we need. She is kind, patient and willing to go the extra mile to help everyone! Maria’s passion for literacy is contagious, and it makes us all want to be better."

Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski)

Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski)

Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski)

Chesterfield Teacher of the Year (8News -- Paul Nevadomski)

8News spoke with Meyers about her teaching approach.

"While there are bigger and broader ways that I have connected with students and the community … the most basic and foundational way that I truly connect with students and the community is through regular, positive interactions," Meyers said. "The impact of a kind word and a smile can uplift those around you. Remembering a student’s plans for the weekend or the name of a sibling generates trust and connection. A friendly wave in the morning car rider loop to parents and caregivers cultivates a culture of care. It does not take a large sum of money, or even time and energy, to show the kindness that others need to feel connected and safe enough to try to do their best.”