Albemarle honors teachers and staff at Celebration of Excellence; Sarah Kiskaden named teacher of the year

Albemarle County Public Schools recognized more than 60 nominees and multiple category winners at its Celebration of Excellence on May 20, highlighting teachers, education support professionals and school leaders across the division.

Sarah Kiskaden was named the Albemarle County Public Schools Teacher of the Year. Kiskaden, who teaches in the district’s dual Spanish immersion program at Mountain View, told the board the program serves students from diverse backgrounds, including students with disabilities, and that research shows dual‑language immersion supports long‑term academic success. She will advance to the Region 5 competition as part of the Virginia Teacher of the Year process.

Other awards announced included first‑year teacher of the year Mia Giacomo (Agner Elementary), classified employee of the year Bill Morris (routing and transportation program manager), and leader of the year Ashby Johnson (principal, Journey Middle School). Staff winners represented a wide array of schools, departments and specialties; presentations emphasized the district’s strategic plan goals and the role of recognition in employee engagement.

Board members and the superintendent praised nominees for contributions to student success, inclusion and innovation. Several winners described team support and classroom practices that underscore the division’s stated priorities of equity and student readiness.

No formal board action was required for the recognitions; the awards are part of the district’s annual employee recognition cycle.