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The final five: UCPS 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year contenders revealed

Teacher of the Year finalists graphic.
The final five: UCPS 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year contenders revealed

In Union County Public Schools (UCPS), teaching is more than a job; it’s a daily opportunity to inspire, challenge and empower students. On Feb. 24, five educators learned they were finalists for the district’s Teacher of the Year, they were greeted with cheers, flowers, balloons and signs by Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan, senior leaders and Board of Education members.

The finalists’ reactions reflected the excitement and pride that come with being recognized for their dedication and impact in UCPS classrooms.

A young woman with curly dark hair and a warm smile stands in front of a plain dark background, her arms crossed in a confident pose.

Amy Blanton – Marvin Ridge Middle

When the door opened to Blanton’s classroom, surprise quickly turned into a bright smile. “I’m feeling excited and happy to represent the school in the county,” she said, still taking it all in.

Blanton, an English language arts teacher who uses a co-teaching model, blends literacy instruction with specialized support. Since joining Marvin Ridge Middle in 2016, she has led initiatives such as the Peer Pals program, the Portrait of a Graduate Committee, and the district’s Summer Curriculum Writing Team.

Her philosophy centers on growth and ownership. “All students are capable of growth, and it is our responsibility to intentionally teach the skills, mindsets and strategies that make growth possible,” she wrote. In her classroom, students set goals, track progress, and celebrate achievements—sometimes even calling their families to share successes.

Jessica Miller – Parkwood Middle

A smiling woman with wavy brown hair wearing a black blazer and a bright pink top stands in front of a dark background.

Miller’s reaction was immediate and joyful. “I’m so excited that I get to represent Parkwood as a top five finalist. My students and I have all worked hard. I’m so thankful that I get to represent them,” she said.

A sixth-grade English Language Arts teacher, Miller embraces what she calls the “science of mattering,” the belief that students perform best when they feel valued. She brings history and science to life through interdisciplinary lessons and engages families through programs such as Family Leadership Night and Leadership Day.

Named Parkwood Middle’s 2025 Teacher of the Year, Miller has also earned the UCPS Influencer Award for her leadership, mentorship, and advocacy for literacy across content areas.

Matthew Dowell – Porter Ridge Middle

A smiling young man in a navy blue suit stands against a dark background.

When Dowell entered his classroom and saw the prize patrol, he paused in stunned silence. “Overwhelmed. And surprise,” he admitted. “It does feel nice to be seen. As musicians, we are sometimes not always the core subjects. We’re kind of on the back burner. But it’s nice to be seen in that regard.”

Dowell, Director of Bands, leads more than 320 students in grades six through eight. Since joining Porter Ridge Middle in 2024, he has expanded enrollment, raised funds for instruments, and earned superior ratings at music adjudications.

His philosophy focuses on clear, achievable steps and learning from mistakes. “Band becomes a home, a family and a pathway for students to discover not only what they are capable of musically, but also who they can become,” he said. In his classroom, routines, high expectations, and a sense of belonging help students take ownership of their learning.

Olivia Skinner – Unionville Elementary

A smiling woman with blonde hair wearing a black and white patterned jacket stands in front of a dark background.

Skinner was visibly stunned. “I’m a little shocked and excited at the same time. I’m very honored to have been selected. Who I am is because of the people I’ve worked with for the last 25 years,” she said.

A third-grade teacher, Skinner’s career spans special education, instructional support, and classroom teaching. Her philosophy grew from her own experiences overcoming a speech impediment as a child: “All students can learn. Every child who enters my classroom brings unique strengths, experiences and talents.”

Twice named Unionville Elementary’s Teacher of the Year, Skinner has mentored new teachers, served on MTSS committees, written curriculum, and led professional development. Her core beliefs remain steady: ground yourself in standards, think outside the box, have fun, be a lifelong learner, collaborate, and always root for the underdog.

Major Chadrick Richardson – Piedmont High

A uniformed military officer with a bald head and a friendly expression stands in front of a plain gray background, wearing a blue uniform with various insignia and medals.

“I’m honestly shocked. There are so many great teachers within the district. To be even considered anywhere near the top is certainly an honor,” he said.

Richardson, Senior Aerospace Science Instructor and Department Head for Piedmont’s AFJROTC program, leads more than 100 cadets and oversees leadership development, service projects, and competitions. Under his guidance, the program has grown 35 percent, and he constructed the district’s only AFJROTC obstacle course, hosts Raiders competitions, mentors instructors statewide, and earned the 2025 AFJROTC Instructor of the Year Award.

His philosophy is simple but powerful: “Learning can take place anywhere—the classroom serves as a jumping-off point. And making genuine connections with students on a personal level is critical to facilitating deep and successful learning.” Students recite the Air Force Core Values daily: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

These five finalists showcase the wide-ranging impact of teaching in UCPS. From fostering literacy to guiding students through music, history, and leadership, they demonstrate that teaching is about making a difference every day. Through their classrooms, programs, and mentorship, they help students grow, explore, and develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

At the U Awards, on May 7, the winner will be announced. Stay tuned!

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