HVHS teacher named 2026 Region VI Teacher of the Year
Updated
Matt Neale with Va. Supt. of Instruction, Dr. Lisa Coons
Matthew Neale, an English and journalism teacher at Roanoke County Public Schools’ Hidden Valley High School, has been named the 2026 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year for Region 6 by the Virginia Department of Education. Neale has been a teacher and a mentor for 20 years.
“Mr. Neale is more than an English teacher, he is a mentor, advocate, and a champion for students in Roanoke County,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Lisa Coons. “His unwavering commitment to meeting students where they are, particularly those facing academic and social challenges, has made an immeasurable impact. Neale embodies the belief that ‘every child is one adult away from being amazing,’ and his ASK philosophy – approachable, standards, and kindness – has shaped a learning environment where students feel supported and challenged to reach their full potential – as made evident by the fact that he’s maintained a career SOL pass rate above 98%. I am thrilled to congratulate him on being named a Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year and thank him for his dedication to his students and school community.”
“Matt Neale exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator. His approach to teaching goes beyond the classroom, as he works tirelessly to build authentic, supportive relationships with each of his students. Whether he's encouraging students to explore new ways to express themselves through poetry or guiding them to think critically about issues in journalism, Matt creates an environment where students feel seen, heard, and challenged. His philosophy of leadership, both in the classroom and on the soccer field, emphasizes integrity, service, and community, making him a role model for students and colleagues alike. It’s no surprise that Matt has been selected as the Region 6 Virginia Teacher of the Year, and we are incredibly fortunate to have him in our school community,” said Roanoke County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Ken Nicely.
“The Roanoke Valley has many great teachers and it is wonderful to have Matt Neale recognized as Regional Teacher of the Year for all his contributions as an English teacher, soccer coach, and the Titan Times sponsor at Hidden Valley!” said Senator David Suetterlein.
"I am so proud of our Commonwealth teachers! Against a backdrop of incredible educators, to be selected the best is an incredible accomplishment. I am privileged to have an opportunity to share in your accomplishments. Thank you for a JOB WELL DONE!” said Delegate Joe McNamara.
Neale is a passionate and dedicated educator with a career spanning 20 years, during which he has taught English, theater, and journalism at Hidden Valley and Cave Spring High Schools in Roanoke County, Virginia. His philosophy in teaching is rooted in the idea that every student has the potential to achieve greatness if they have the right support and encouragement.
One of Neale's most significant contributions to his school and the Roanoke community was his leadership in a week-long opioid awareness campaign which increased student-adult opioid conversations by 30%. Recognizing the growing concern of addiction and its impact on students, Neale spearheaded a cross departmental initiative that involved teachers from English, math, psychology, health, and foreign languages. This collaborative effort, which partnered with the Roanoke County Prevention Council, brought in speakers to complement the lesson plans developed by the teachers. Due to the campaign’s success, Neale was called to Richmond by Virginia’s National Guard Counterdrug Task Force to present the program to VOSAP.
Additionally, Neale is a member of the Principal’s Advisory Committee and serves as the Head of English Remediation for Hidden Valley High School. He is a member of the coaching staff for various Roanoke County High and Middle Schools, as well as a staff coach for Roanoke College Soccer Camps. Neale is a sponsor of both TitanTimes.org, the school’s online newspaper, and the school’s Theater Club and Spring Musical. Outside of the school community, Neale is a volunteer for restorative justice mediation at the Bride Institute and provides pro bono state family law mediation. He received a bachelor's degree in theater, English, and speech education from Virginia Commonwealth University and holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Kentucky College of Law.
“What makes Matt Neale stand out isn’t just his innovative teaching—it’s the way he connects with students and inspires them to do their best. He challenges them to think critically, communicate effectively, and push beyond their comfort zones, all while making learning relevant and engaging. His leadership in the classroom, on the field, and throughout our school community makes a lasting impact. We are incredibly fortunate to have him at Hidden Valley, and I can’t think of a more deserving educator for this honor,” said Hidden Valley High School Principal Josh Whitlow.
The announcement of Neale’s nomination coincided with a surprise visit from Superintendent Coons, Senator David Suetterlein, Delegate Joe McNamara, Chief of Staff Jeremy Raley, Chief Information Officer Dave Myers, and Associate Superintendent of Special Populations and Board Operations Samantha Hollins. Neale and the seven other regional Teachers of the Year will join a Teacher Advisory Council, helping elevate the voices and perspectives of all Virginia teachers on VDOE’s work.
All eight Regional Teachers of the Year are nominees for the 2026 Mary V. Bicouvaris Virginia Teacher of the Year Award. The final Virginia Teacher of the Year Award will be announced in early May.