Portsmouth teacher wins big award

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) - A fourth grade teacher at a Portsmouth school received a $25,000 award during a surprise assembly Tuesday.

LaKeshia Ames, who teaches math at Churchland Primary and Intermediate, received the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award during the assembly.

“The Milken Family Foundation National Educator Awards are designed to recognize and reward elementary and secondary school teachers, principals and specialists who promote excellence and innovation in public education,” the Virginia Department of Education explained.

In addition to serving as a math teacher, Ames also serves on the school’s improvement team, and the math, science and social studies committees.

“There is no greater factor to ensuring that students excel in the classroom than a great teacher,” Gov. Bob McDonnell said. “Ms. Ames has demonstrated dedication, skill and infectious enthusiasm in the classroom which has led to her peers to have chosen her for this prestigious award. She is an inspiration to her students and fellow educators.”

Ames was also the school’s Teacher of the Year in 2010.