The Mathews County School Board took the time to honor three of its teachers who have excelled during challenging times, recognizing the division’s three Teachers of the Year for 2021-2022.

VPI preschool teacher Judy Emanuel at Mathews Elementary, Thomas Hunter Middle School music instructor Michael Loveless and Mathews High math teacher Sandra Crittenden were recognized during Tuesday’s meeting, which was held in the MHS media center. All three of the division’s principals mentioned how these teachers have gone above and beyond in a year made especially difficult by the pandemic.

Mathews Elementary principal Cindy Gray said that not only did Emanuel grapple with the challenges of Covid, but she faced other obstacles as well, including a house fire and a family member with health issues. Emanuel let none of that get in the way of her performance in the classroom.

“She just had perseverance and positivity that would not go away,” Gray said. “She fills her classroom with love.”...