“Teachers shape the future, inspire excellence, and create an environment where students can thrive,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Congratulations to Matthew Neale! Virginia’s future is brighter because of your commitment and dedication to your students.”  

“Matthew Neale is a passionate advocate for students and displays a relentless commitment to excellence in and out of the classroom,” said Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction Emily Anne Gullickson. “He will continue to be an excellent ambassador for the profession throughout his career.”   

Following interviews with each of the eight regional winners, a selection committee chose Matthew Neale the 2026 Region 6 Teacher of the Year. The selection committee included representatives of educational institutions, the business community, and school divisions. The award recognizes exceptional teachers who demonstrate excellence in the classroom and leadership in the education community.  

“Teaching is one of the most noble and challenging professions there is. I am incredibly honored to be named Virginia’s Teacher of the Year, but even more proud to stand alongside so many amazing teachers across the State, and most of all, grateful for the amazing students who make this job so rewarding.” said 2026 Virginia Teacher of the Year winner Matthew Neale. 

Matthew Neale, a veteran educator with over 20 years of teaching experience, has spent the last 14 years shaping young minds at Hidden Valley High School in Roanoke County Public Schools. Prior to his career in education, Neale practiced law specializing in complex litigation.  A desire to make a difference led him to Southwest Virginia, where he discovered that teaching was a life-changing calling.  

At Hidden Valley, Neale revitalized the school’s journalism program, mentoring students in writing, reporting, and storytelling. His dedication to elevating student voice has empowered countless young people to express themselves with confidence and creativity. Neale is known by his students for his 'ASK' philosophy: Approachable, Standards, and Kindness. This guiding principle has earned him a reputation as a trusted mentor among students and colleagues alike.  

Beyond the classroom, Neale is also a passionate advocate for community well-being. He leads the school’s opioid awareness initiative in partnership with the Roanoke County Prevention Council, working to educate students and families. Neale’s journey from the courtroom to the classroom exemplifies a deep commitment to service, mentorship, and community impact. 

As Teacher of the Year, Neale will serve as an ambassador for excellent teaching and representing the Commonwealth of Virginia in the National Teacher of the Year competition. 

“On behalf of the Virginia Board of Education, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Matthew Neale on this well-deserved honor.” said Virginia Board of Education President Grace Turner Creasey. “Your passion for teaching, commitment to excellence, and dedication to your students reflect the very best of Virginia’s public education system.” 

Also recognized during the event were the distinguished Regional Teachers of the Year, each celebrated for their outstanding contributions to education in their respective communities. 

• Rachel Tate, a history teacher at Goochland High School, Goochland County Public Schools (Superintendent Region 1) 

• Deana Hubbell, an elementary teacher at Carrsville Elementary School, Isle of Wight County Public Schools (Superintendent Region 2) 

• James Eccleston, a history teacher at Gloucester High, Gloucester County Public Schools (Superintendent Region 3) 

• Sharon Phox, an elementary teacher at James K. Polk Elementary, Alexandria City Public School (Superintendent Region 4) 

• Karen Grady, an elementary teacher at A.R. Ware Elementary, Staunton City Public Schools (Superintendent Region 5) 

• Jeff Brown, a biology teacher at Radford High, Radford City Public Schools (Superintendent Region 7) 

• Charles Motter, a mathematics teacher at Cumberland Middle School, Cumberland County Public Schools (Superintendent Region 8) 

Following the ceremony, Neale, and the other regional teachers were honored at a reception hosted by the Governor and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin. 

The 2026 National Teacher of the Year will be announced next spring at a White House ceremony. Three previous Virginia teachers went on to be 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.