NKCPS Announces 2027 Teachers of the Year

New Kent County Public Schools is proud to announce its 2027 Teachers of the Year, recognizing five exceptional educators whose dedication, professionalism, and commitment to students exemplify excellence across the division. 

On Friday, December 12th, 2025, division and school administrators surprised each honoree at their respective schools to celebrate their outstanding contributions to teaching, leadership, and school culture. Together, the 2027 Teachers of the Year embody our division’s mission to engage, empower, and elevate every student while fostering inclusive, supportive learning environments. 

NKCPS and George W. Watkins Elementary School leaders officially recognized Ms. Amy Leonard as the 2027 NKCPS Division Teacher of the Year on Wednesday, December 17th, 2025. Additional information about each honoree is provided below. 

GWES and NKCPS Division Teacher of the Year: Ms. Amy Leonard 

Ms. Amy Leonard, a second-grade teacher at George W. Watkins Elementary School, has been named both the GWES Teacher of the Year and the 2027 NKCPS Division Teacher of the Year. With more than 31 years of service to NKCPS, Ms. Leonard has inspired generations of students through her patient, kind, and inclusive approach to teaching. 

Her classroom is widely regarded as a model learning environment—one where every child feels seen, valued, and encouraged to succeed. Beyond her impact on students, Ms. Leonard is an invaluable leader within the school community. She serves as a mentor to new and aspiring teachers, a practicum supervisor, and a collaborative partner who consistently elevates instructional practice. She has also taken on challenging inclusion roles and actively supports students with diverse learning needs. 

Ms. Leonard’s dedication extends well beyond the school day. She regularly participates in after-school and community events, supports families, and approaches each day with a positive attitude that colleagues and students alike admire. 

GWES Principal Ms. Tammy Krejcarek shared, “Ms. Leonard embodies the very best of our profession through her consistently patient, kind, and loving approach to every student in our school. Her classroom is a true model of an inclusive learning environment where every child feels seen, valued, and encouraged to succeed.” 

“Ms. Leonard represents the heart of New Kent County Public Schools,” stated NKCPS Superintendent Dr. Brian J. Nichols. “Her lifelong commitment to students, her leadership among colleagues, and her unwavering belief in every child make her an exceptional educator and a deserving Division Teacher of the Year. We are incredibly proud to have her represent NKCPS at the regional level.” 

Ms. Leonard shared, “I am incredibly grateful to be named Teacher of the Year. To be recognized for doing work that I love is an honor, and I am so fortunate to be a part of this school family. This award is a reflection of the amazing mentors, colleagues, and families who support our school every day. I am excited to represent our district and to continue this important work for the next generation of learners.”  

As the NKCPS Division Teacher of the Year, Ms. Leonard will advance to represent the division in the Regional Teacher of the Year competition. 

New Kent Elementary School (NKES) Teacher of the Year: Ms. Sabrina Dunn 

Ms. Sabrina Dunn, a special education teacher at NKES, is recognized for her compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to meeting the academic, social, and emotional needs of every learner she serves. With a growing and complex caseload, Ms. Dunn consistently provides individualized support, ensuring students feel cared for, believed in, and capable of success. 

Known for her calm demeanor and solutions-oriented mindset, Ms. Dunn is a trusted teammate and a strong advocate for students and families. She collaborates closely with colleagues, celebrates even the smallest student victories, and approaches challenges with positivity and grace. 

“Ms. Dunn is always kind, patient, and fully committed to her students no matter what,” shared NKES Principal Dr. Therese O'Dea. “She goes above and beyond every day and expects nothing in return other than the satisfaction of watching her students' progress. She makes NKES a brighter and happier place to learn!” 

Ms. Dunn’s empathy, dedication, and joyful spirit make her an invaluable member of the NKES community. 

Quinton Elementary School (QES) Teacher of the Year: Ms. Katherine “Katie” Freeman 

Ms. Katie Freeman, a second-grade teacher at QES, is celebrated for creating a caring, inclusive classroom where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to learn. She blends engaging instruction with high expectations, consistently aligning her teaching to best practices while adapting strategies to meet individual student needs. 

A respected leader within the school, Ms. Freeman serves in multiple leadership roles, including grade-level lead teacher and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Committee member. She is known for her willingness to tackle challenges head-on, support colleagues, and build strong relationships with students and families. 

“Ms. Freeman is an example of what true passion for teaching is,” stated QES Principal Ms. Christine Pilger. “She is a leader in the school and practices the ideal model of inclusivity that we hold so dear here at Quinton. She sets the norm at Quinton, going above and beyond.” 

Ms. Freeman’s high expectations, infectious personality, and unwavering dedication have left a lasting impact on the QES community. 

New Kent Middle School (NKMS) Teacher of the Year: Mr. Patrick Kimrey 

Mr. Patrick Kimrey, NKMS English department chair and a seventh-grade English teacher, brings enthusiasm, creativity, and innovation to the school, inspiring students and colleagues alike. He builds strong relationships with students while maintaining a structured, engaging learning environment that encourages curiosity and critical thinking. 

Mr. Kimrey is widely respected for his collaborative spirit, professionalism, and commitment to student success. His lessons reflect thoughtful planning and a genuine passion for helping students grow academically and personally. 

NKMS Principal Mr. Sammy Fudge stated that “Mr. Kimrey is a dedicated professional who works each and every day to ensure that all of his students have outstanding learning experiences.” 

Mr. Kimrey’s teamwork, integrity, and positive presence make Mr. Kimrey a vital part of the NKMS community. 

New Kent High School (NKHS) Teacher of the Year: Mr. Joshua “Josh” Bell 

Mr. Josh Bell, an NKHS history teacher and NKCPS alumnus, exemplifies excellence through his engaging instruction and deep commitment to students. Known for creating a classroom where students feel safe, valued, and supported, Mr. Bell consistently goes above and beyond to ensure meaningful learning experiences. 

His impact extends far beyond the classroom. Mr. Bell dedicates countless hours to NKHS through coaching the swim and dive team, sponsoring the Student Government Association (SGA), and helping lead schoolwide events. Colleagues admire his ability to foster community, collaboration, and school pride. 

NKHS Principal Ms. Allison Strickland shared, “Mr. Bell goes above and beyond to make learning engaging and meaningful. His contributions extend beyond the classroom, and he is truly an asset to our school community. His presence makes our school a brighter place.” 

Mr. Bell’s passion for education and leadership makes him an inspiring role model for both students and colleagues.