Matt Neale is named the 2026 Virginia Teacher of the Year

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 when Neale was named the region six teacher of the year in March.

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.