Stewart D. Roberson. Superintendent of Schools, announced today that Carol G. Beazley, Physical Education Teacher at South Anna Elementary School, has been selected as the Hanover County Public Schools Teacher of the Year 2009. The selection committee’s decision is based on a comprehensive application packet that includes a professional biography, community involvement, professional development activities, awards, and an essay expressing the candidate’s philosophy of teaching. As Hanover’s top teacher, Ms. Beazley will be a candidate for the Virginia Region 1 Teacher of the Year. The Virginia Teacher of the Year 2009 will be chosen from eight regional winners.

         Ms. Beazley received her bachelor’s degree from James Madison University and has done post-graduate studies at the University of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University. She began teaching in Hanover in 1993. In her career, she has taught physical education and health, driver education, creative movement and family life. She has also served as a gymnastics coach.

          In support of the nomination, her colleagues say that Ms. Beazley has a strong, steady spirit that creates a climate of well-being at the school. Fellow teacher Sallie Moncol said, “Carol loves children…and finds joy in watching them grow and mature. She sees the connection between physical and mental well-being and integrates language and art lessons into her P.E. classes.” Her principal, Dr. Cyndee Blount, characterizes Beazley as compassionate and knowledgeable. “Mrs. Beazley is a “one of a kind” top-notch educator,” said Blount. She is a true “teacher of teachers” who understands the multiple facets of a school system and always has the big picture in mind.”

          Joining the celebration was Pat Patrick, who congratulated Ms. Beazley and presented her with the invitation to come to the dealership in Ashland to choose a car to drive for the upcoming year courtesy of Patrick Auto Group. This is the second year that Patrick Auto Group has sponsored a car for the Hanover Teacher of the Year. Mr. Patrick noted that his children were educated in Hanover schools. As he congratulated Ms. Beazley, he said that the gift is “his family’s way of giving back” to the teachers and school system. “Carol Beazley demonstrates her skills, knowledge and professionalism in her classroom every day,” said Superintendent of Schools Stewart Roberson. “The School Board and I join the entire school community in applauding this outstanding teacher who represents the ‘best of the best’ in our school district.”