Staunton Schools announced today that Karen Grady, a 1st-grade teacher at A.R. Ware Elementary School, is the school system’s division-wide 2025 Teacher of the Year.
Seven teachers and seven support staff members were selected through peer nominations. Staff members voted for one Teacher of the Year and one Support Staff Person of the Year in their school or department. A committee then chose one honoree in each category.
“We are so honored to recognize the work of our exceptional teachers and staff. They are acknowledged school-wide for their unwavering focus on student learning, positive relationships, collaboration with others, and the long-term instructional difference they make for individuals and the community. We all feel so proud to work alongside these individuals,” Staunton Schools Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Stephanie Haskins said.
Bookkeeper Debbie Byrd was named the division-wide Support Staff Person of the Year for 2025. Staunton Schools uses criteria outlined by the state to select the Teacher of the Year for the division, and will submit Grady’s nomination for consideration as the regional Teacher of the Year.
Grady has been a 1st-grade teacher at Ware Elementary School for 25 years. Early influences instilled in her a desire to pursue a career that would allow her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
She also has a deep commitment to community service, and is actively involved with two local fire companies, dedicating countless hours to volunteering and fundraising. Grady’s work with the fire companies deepened her appreciation for the value of teamwork — a principle she consistently applies in her professional and personal life. She firmly believes that collaboration and mutual support among educators, students and families are essential to achieving success in the classroom and beyond. She emphasizes the importance of teamwork to her students as well by teaching them to treat one another respectfully and to work together toward shared goals.
As a 1st-grade teacher, Grady works tirelessly to ensure every student succeeds academically. She has embraced the challenges of teaching with resilience and enthusiasm and takes pride in providing hands-on learning experiences that make education enjoyable and impactful for her students. Witnessing a “light bulb moment” when a student grasps a concept or makes a meaningful connection is one of the most rewarding aspects of her career. Her willingness to volunteer for school-wide initiatives further demonstrates her dedication to the greater good of her school community.
Grady is honored to have made a difference in the lives of her students throughout her teaching career. She looks forward to continuing her journey as an educator, knowing that her efforts contribute to the success and growth of countless children. She is proud to have accepted the “challenge” 25 years ago. As she looks to the future, she remains committed to making a meaningful difference in student’s lives.
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Rebecca Barnabi
