Marilyn Jernigan, third-grade teacher at Christopher Farms Elementary School, was recently named the 2001 VBCPS Teacher of the Year. In a surprise visit to her classroom, Superintendent Timothy R. Jenney and Assistant Superintendent Betsy Taylor made the announcement and presented her with roses and other congratulatory gifts.

Chosen from an initial pool of 84 teachers representing their schools, Jernigan was one of several finalists selected to receive classroom visits by the Teacher of the Year Selection Committee. According to Chairperson Margaret Buxton, all the finalists were outstanding, but Jernigan stood out because of her "high degree of creativity in enhancing the academic programs for all the children with whom she works."

Jernigan is a 23-year veteran teacher. She has held numerous teaching positions in beach schools, among them North Landing, Salem, Strawbridge, and Princess Anne Elementary Schools. Jernigan earned a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and has also earned her M.A. in elementary education from The College of William and Mary.

According to Don Clement, principal at Christopher Farms, Jernigan "quite simply is the best and we are indeed fortunate to have her as a member of our staff. Mrs. Jernigan is the epitome of what a teacher is all about....If I had a child in third grade, I would want my child in Marilyn’s class because she is a truly dedicated, innovative, and caring professional."

Jernigan has served in numerous leadership roles and has served as a cooperating teacher for student teachers. In addition, she has been a clinical faculty member of the Virginia Collaborative for Excellence in the Preparation of Teachers at Norfolk State University, and been active in many school and community committees. In addition, she has worked on/attended a broad array of professional workshops, particularly in her specialty of mathematics.

Jernigan’s awards and honors are numerous. Among them are the Presidential Award for the Excellence in Mathematics & Science Teaching at the state level, the William C. Lowry Outstanding Mathematics Teacher of the Year. She was also named teacher of the year in 1989 at North Landing Elementary, and in 1992 at Strawbridge Elementary School.

For more information about the 2001 Teacher of the Year, call Margaret Buxton at 427- 4614.

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