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Once again, it’ll be a Cumberland teacher representing this region at the state Teacher of the Year competition. Charles Motter, a math teacher at Cumberland Middle School, has been named the 2026 Virginia Region 8 Teacher of the Year by the Virginia Department of Education. 

Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons made the announcement Wednesday, March 12, during a visit to Cumberland Middle. Motter has been a teacher for 27 years. 

“For nearly three decades, Mr. Motter has focused on helping every student be successful in math,” said Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons. “Mr. Motter ensures that all math lessons are grounded in real-world applications that allow students to develop concrete pictures of how middle school math concepts apply to their lives. By grounding math in these experiences, Mr. Motter builds confidence in his students. I am honored to recognize him with this achievement today — congratulations on being named a Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year.” 

Motter was also praised by school district officials for his work. 

“I have had the privilege of knowing Mr. Motter for my entire time in Cumberland, and I can confidently say that this recognition as Region 8 Teacher of the Year is well deserved,” said Cumberland County Public Schools Superintendent Chip Jones. “He is passionate about teaching and learning, always eager to explore new ideas, and highly skilled in technology. Beyond the classroom, he is a devoted family man and the foundation of his grade level, known for his generosity and kindness. I am incredibly happy and proud of him for this achievement!” 

More about Charles Motter 

With a teaching career spanning 27 years, Motter attributes the countless opportunities to collaborate with outstanding educators as the source of the inspiring and innovative ideas which has shaped his ever-evolving teaching practice. In addition to teaching, Motter serves as the sixth-grade lead teacher and the instruction resource teacher for Cumberland County Public Schools, offering support to his colleagues both in his school and across the division. His goal as a teacher is to instill a lifelong curiosity about math in his students and a recognition of its presence in the world around them, and his teaching philosophy centers on the belief that learning should be engaging, inclusive, and relevant.  

Highly involved in his community, Motter dedicates his time serving as a Merit Badge Counselor for Scouting America and is an active member in the Virginia Society for Technology in Education and Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics. He received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Longwood University, and a master’s degree in interdisciplinary studies (math specialist) from Virginia Commonwealth University. 

‘A pivotal leader in various roles’

“It is with great pride that we celebrate Charles Motter as Region 8 Teacher of the Year, and for his outstanding dedication and contributions to Cumberland County Public Schools over the past 20 plus years,” said Cumberland Middle School Principal Andrew Hoyt. “As a 6th Grade Math Teacher, Mr. Motter not only excels in the classroom but also serves as a pivotal leader in various roles, including Grade Level Chair, Instructional Technology Resource Teacher, and professional development facilitator.”

Hoyt said that Motter’s passion for teaching has inspired both students and colleagues alike.

“Beyond academics, his commitment to student success, community engagement, and environmental advocacy showcases his deep care for shaping well-rounded, responsible individuals,” Hoyt said. “His leadership, empathy, and dedication to lifelong learning have made him a cornerstone of our educational community, and we are incredibly fortunate to have him as part of our team.” 

The announcement of Motter’s nomination coincided with a surprise visit from Superintendent Coons, Senator Cifers, and VDOE Chief of Staff Jeremy Raley. Motter 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.