Isle of Wight County Schools is proud to announce that Amanda Browder, Instructional Coach at Smithfield Middle School, has been selected as the 2026 Leadership Award recipient by the Virginia Association for Teaching, Learning, and Leading (VATLL).
Browder was formally recognized during the VATLL Awards Luncheon and Ceremony held on February 6, 2026, at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond. The annual event honors outstanding educators across the Commonwealth who exemplify excellence in teaching, learning, and leadership.
The VATLL Leadership Award is presented each year to one Virginia educator who demonstrates exceptional leadership in curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Recipients are recognized not only for their own professional excellence, but for their ability to elevate the practice and performance of those they lead.
Dr. Chelsea Kulp, Principal of Smithfield Middle School, nominated Browder for the award and praised her transformative impact on the school community:
“Amanda exemplifies exceptional collaboration, mentorship, and professionalism—qualities that have had a measurable impact on both her colleagues and students at Smithfield Middle School. Despite numerous challenges, her commitment to excellence never wavered. Her collaborative work in data analysis, curriculum design, and targeted instructional support directly contributed to increased SOL scores across all subject areas. Amanda’s leadership, perseverance, and teamwork truly reflect the very best of our school.”
Under Browder’s instructional leadership, Smithfield Middle School experienced measurable academic growth, including a 10% increase in the Science 8 end-of-year pass rate. Her work in mentoring teachers, modeling best practices, and fostering a culture of collaboration has strengthened both instructional quality and staff morale.
Isle of Wight County Schools congratulates Amanda Browder on this well-deserved honor and thanks her for her continued commitment to student success and instructional excellence.
About VATLL
The Virginia Association for Teaching, Learning, and Leading (VATLL) is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to advancing excellence in Virginia’s schools. Its members include teachers, school leaders, superintendents, professors, central office staff, and teacher education students, all united by a shared purpose: ensuring a world-class education for every Virginia student.
VATLL supports educators through:
-
Programs and services that promote innovation and reflective practice
-
Advocacy and leadership that empower educators as change agents
-
Solution-driven networks for collaboration and shared learning
-
Open and transparent governance to expand statewide impact
Each year, VATLL honors Virginia educators through its Impact, Team, and Leadership Awards, recognizing those who influence, inspire, and improve learning across the Commonwealth