2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26100830D

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 93

Offered March 4, 2026

Commending Karen Grady.

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Patron—Head

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WHEREAS, Karen Grady, a first-grade teacher at A. R. Ware Elementary School of Staunton City Public Schools, has been named the Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year for Region 5 by the Virginia Department of Education for 2026; and

WHEREAS, a devoted educator and mentor for 25 years, Karen Grady has consistently demonstrated her commitment to ensuring her students have a strong foundation in literacy and other essential skills; and

WHEREAS, Karen Grady has completed extensive training to provide the highest quality reading instruction, has partnered with local firefighters through the Firefighters in Literacy program to expand learning supports, and volunteers her time with the fire department to assist their needs; and

WHEREAS, admired for her ability to transfer responsibility for learning to her students and maintain high expectations, Karen Grady inspires tremendous academic and personal growth among her first graders each school year; and

WHEREAS, Karen Grady embraces the challenges of teaching with resilience and enthusiasm, consistently researching and implementing new teaching strategies, tutoring students after school, and seeking innovative ways to enhance classroom instruction; and

WHEREAS, beyond her own classroom, Karen Grady generously supports her first-grade team by sharing materials, ideas, and resources, believing deeply in the value of teamwork for professional growth and the creation of a supportive learning environment; and

WHEREAS, Karen Grady is deeply committed to community service, volunteering and fundraising with two local fire companies, and actively participating in the Staunton Education Association, the Virginia Education Association, and the National Education Association; and

WHEREAS, Karen Grady's creativity, instructional knowledge, and genuine care for her students have inspired countless young learners and made her a role model for fellow educators; and

WHEREAS, as one of eight Virginia Regional Teachers of the Year, Karen Grady will serve on the Teacher Advisory Council, helping elevate the voices and perspectives of Virginia teachers in shaping statewide educational initiatives; and

WHEREAS, Karen Grady and her fellow Regional Teachers of the Year are nominees for the 2026 Mary V. Bicouvaris Virginia Teacher of the Year Award, to be announced in May 2026; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, That Karen Grady, an outstanding educator and community leader, hereby be commended for being named the 2026 Virginia Regional Teacher of the Year for Region 5; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Karen Grady as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration for her many contributions to education and her community.