On Thursday, December 5, 2024, the Indian River High School auditorium was filled with 48 wicked smart, wicked talented educators as we celebrated our annual Teacher of the Year Awards Ceremony. This special event showcased our 2025 teachers of the year and highlighted their profound impact on their students, colleagues, and communities, emphasizing how their work truly changes lives for the better.
We also proudly revealed the elementary, middle, high school, and district-wide teachers of the year. These educators exemplify the idea that teaching is not just a profession—it’s a calling that leaves an everlasting mark for good.
Ceremony Resources
The 2025 Citywide Chesapeake Teacher is Kaitlyn Gabriel
We are proud to announce that Ms. Kaitlyn Gabriel has been selected as the Chesapeake Public Schools Teacher of the Year! Kaitlyn truly defies gravity!
Kaitlyn is a passionate 6th-grade civics and economics teacher at Oscar Smith Middle. Colleagues shared that she is a "creative genius" and “the most gifted educator they have ever met.” She stands out for her commitment to fostering an inclusive classroom and valuing every student’s voice. Her dedication has built a strong sense of community, where all students feel safe and confident in sharing their thoughts.
A former student shared that it’s easy to “tell that she really loves being a teacher.” That student also explained her dedication as a soccer coach and how “she is constantly teaching us how to improve our skills on the field and how to have good sportsmanship and etiquette.”
The Chesapeake Educational Foundation presented Ms. Gabriel with a $1,000 gift card, and she will be the district’s nominee for the 2025 Virginia State Teacher of the Year program. Congratulations, Kaitlyn Gabriel! 🎉
The 2025 Elementary School Teacher of the Year is Julie Carey King
Mrs. Julie Carey King has been selected as the Chesapeake Public Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year. Julie is a special education teacher at Butts Road Intermediate and has an extraordinary ability to build meaningful relationships with students. Having taught students from all backgrounds and with different abilities, Julie knows that flexibility and openness are key in helping children feel safe and supported.
As a colleague, she is also loved and deeply respected. Mrs. Carey King has served as a mentor for new teachers and is currently the Special Education Department Head at her school. Prior to teaching, Julie held other positions outside of the school district including with the Norfolk Naval Shipyard as Director of their Child Development Center and as the Assistant Education Director at the Barry Robinson Center. She is now in her 10th year teaching with us. Congratulations, Julie Carey King! 🎉
The 2025 Middle School Teacher of the Year is Beth Deir
Mrs. Beth Deir has been selected as the Chesapeake Public Schools Middle School Teacher of the Year. Beth is a 7th-grade science teacher at Hickory Middle School and makes it her mission to see the best in every student. Beth’s innovative approach to teaching includes hands-on projects that connect students to real-world concepts. Her lessons encourage students to become curious, engaged, and empowered to make a difference.
As assistant athletic director, she’s contributed to building a strong sense of community and teamwork, further enriching the lives of those around them. She also became an early adopter of the Modern Classroom Project because she is always striving to grow as an educator. Congratulations, Beth Deir! 🎉
The 2025 High School Teacher of the Year is Shannon Anderson
Mrs. Shannon Anderson has been selected as Chesapeake Public Schools High School Teacher of the Year! She is an English teacher at Grassfield High School and strives to build a classroom environment where students are met with kindness, encouragement, and the freedom to express themselves. With a contagious enthusiasm for literature, Shannon transforms classic texts into modern-day adventures, inspiring her students to approach life with curiosity and compassion.
Beyond the classroom, Shannon's commitment shines through her involvement in school events, leadership roles, and her dedication to building community. Whether running the multicultural club, cheering at Powder Puff games, or supporting her colleagues, she approaches every role with energy and heart. Congratulations, Shannon Anderson! 🎉
