SANFORD - Lee County Schools is proud to announce that Mrs. Virginia Williams, an educator at W.B. Wicker Elementary, has been named the district’s Beginning Teacher of the Year. Now in her second year of teaching, she has demonstrated remarkable passion, creativity, and dedication to her students, earning her this honor in recognition of her outstanding work in the classroom.
As one of the original staff members who helped reopen W.B. Wicker Elementary in 2019, Mrs. Williams began her career as an instructional assistant, a role that she credits with giving her the foundation to be the educator that she is today. Williams took advantage of the district’s TA to Teacher licensure pathway, completing her coursework and certification while employed in the district. Her journey reflects her belief that teaching is not just a profession, but a calling.
In her classroom, Mrs. Williams fosters a dynamic and flexible learning environment that adapts daily to meet the needs of her students. She places strong emphasis on building meaningful relationships with students and their families, believing that connection is the key to academic and personal success.
Her teaching philosophy centers on high expectations paired with support, encouragement, and consistency. She is known for her willingness to step outside the box to ensure her students are engaged and growing.
“Success is growth - whether academic, emotional, or social - in a classroom where engagement is key,” said Williams.
Dr. David Blackmon, who serves as the District’s Director of Human Capital and coordinates the Beginning Teacher Program for LCS said, “Mrs. Williams is an exceptional example of the talent, heart, and dedication we are fortunate to have in our classrooms. Her creativity and commitment to student success reflect the very best of what teaching should be. Her journey from instructional assistant to licensed teacher highlight what is possible when we work together to support one another and work to improve. We are proud to honor her as our Beginning Teacher of the Year.”
Lee County Schools congratulates Mrs. Williams on this outstanding achievement and thanks her for the impact she makes each day at W.B. Wicker Elementary School and throughout the community.