As New Hope Academy closed out its first year, career and technical educator Eurika Tyree became its very first Teacher of the Year.

Described by New Hope Academy Supervisor Keith Crews as “a rising star within the division,” Tyree — who also serves on the Cumberland County School Board and has been a guidance secretary, division testing coordinator and a bus driver, to name only a few of her job titles — exhibits a wealth of knowledge and a depth of dedication to the students. She can often be found picking up trash with students and collecting cans for their canned food drives, and her “highly engaging” lessons consistently involve real-world skills.

She is especially dedicated to making sure students find gainful employment after graduation, taking those without transportation to job interviews, helping them write cover letters and resumes and demonstrating how to dress for success. Thanks to her efforts, New Hope was able to initiate the Jobs for Virginia Graduates program this year, and 12 students have ultimately found employment.

“She puts her best foot forward everyday when comes in,” Crews said. “This individual comes into the building giving of herself, her heart.”