Heart of Henrico
Heart of Henrico - 2026 Honorees
Belonging
Sandi Chesworth, Library Assistant
Glen Lea Elementary School
Why she was recognized: "... If you walk into our library on a rainy morning or a chaotic afternoon, you will find one constant: Sandi Chesworth’s smile and her handwritten 'Joke of the Day.' Sandi is more than just a library assistant; she is a culture-builder who embodies Henrico County Public Schools' Journey to 2030 through her quiet leadership and enormous heart. ... Sandi is the ultimate teammate."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Howard Moodie, Custodian
Nuckols Farm Elementary School
Why he was recognized: "... One of Mr. Moodie’s most consistent and powerful contributions is his positive presence. He greets students with genuine warmth, encouragement and a smile, setting the tone for their day before they ever enter a classroom. For many students, especially those who may be struggling or need reassurance, these brief but meaningful interactions make a real difference."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Angela Stewart, Cafeteria Manager
L. Douglas Wilder Middle School
Why she was recognized: "... She doesn’t just make sure meals are served, she makes sure students feel welcomed, supported and cared for. ... Ms. Angela is always looking out for the kids. She notices when a student is having a hard day and goes out of her way to make sure no one feels left out. For many students, Ms. Angela helps make the cafeteria a space where they feel comfortable and safe."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Collaboration
Tomeka Campbell, Associate Principal
Three Chopt Elementary
Why she was recognized: "... Ms. Campbell is even-keeled and unflappable. Situations arise every day in elementary schools that require a steady hand, a strong mind, integrity and compassion. Ms. Campbell exhibited each of these qualities daily. It was clearly evident that the students, teachers and staff respect her, believe in her and look to her for effective leadership."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Dottie Tyler, Bus Assistant
Transportation
Why she was recognized: "... Mrs. Tyler goes above and beyond every single day for my son, who is on the autism spectrum. From the moment he steps onto the bus, she makes him feel safe, supported and understood. ... Her patience, kindness and consistency have made a world of difference for our family. She doesn’t just see children as riders on a bus — she sees them as people who matter."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Erica Wood, School Counselor
Hungary Creek Middle School
Why she was recognized: "Ms. Wood and I often joke that she 'cares too much,' but the truth is there is simply no limit to how far she will go to support her students. Her dedication at Hungary Creek is unmatched. ... When students are in need, Ms. Wood does not take no for an answer. She will collaborate, advocate and persist regardless of any obstacle. She is the true embodiment of the Heart of Henrico."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Equity
Jehan Gabrual, Associate Principal
Dumbarton Elementary School
Why she was recognized: "... She has a personal connection to families who come from different countries and diverse backgrounds, allowing her to approach conversations with understanding and compassion. This perspective enables her to advocate effectively for students and families, ensuring access to resources and opportunities that support academic and social growth. She believes that all students can learn and that it is the responsibility of the school to remove barriers and provide meaningful support."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Jennifer Robinson, Early Learning Preschool Family Advocate
Federal Programs and Foundational Learning
Why she was recognized: "... Jennifer’s dedication is most evident in her commitment to meeting families where they are. She works tirelessly to connect families with essential resources, whether that means assisting with enrollment, navigating community services, or providing guidance during times of uncertainty. Jennifer understands that every family’s situation is unique, and she approaches each interaction with patience, empathy and persistence."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Victoria Goss Stepp, Drama Teacher
Moody Middle School
Why she was recognized: " ... Mrs. Goss Stepp views the stage not just as a place for performance but as a platform for equity and belonging. She intentionally selects diverse scripts and creates casting opportunities that ensure every student feels empowered to take the spotlight. Her classroom is a sanctuary where the 'Journey to 2030' goals come to life; she fosters an inclusive environment where students who may feel invisible in other settings are celebrated for their unique talents."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Innovation
Brewster Brown, Director of School Counseling
Tuckahoe Middle School
Why he was recognized: "... It is truly a feat to put into words all that he does not only for our students but for the staff and community as well. The core values listed above exemplify Brown's character in and outside of school. He makes it his mission to collaborate in a way that allows staff to feel heard and seen in their needs. In every action taken he is student-focused — always making sure their best interests are at the forefront."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Nick Lapres, Innovative Learning Coach
Fairfield Middle School
Why he was recognized: "Nick is a tireless champion for his colleagues. He transformed the school’s weekly shout-outs from a simple list into a robust showcase of instructional excellence. By elevating the successes of his peers in every newsletter, he fosters a culture of mutual respect and morale that is essential to the 'Heart of Henrico.' ... He is a leader, a collaborator and a visionary who truly deserves this recognition."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Alexis Miller, Family Resource Center Coordinator
Family and Community Engagement
Why she was recognized: "... What truly sets Alexis apart is her commitment to making students active partners in everything she does. Each time I saw her this summer, she had two students alongside her students who were not only present but fully engaged and eager to contribute. ... This demonstrates her belief that students should not just be the focus of our work but collaborators in creating meaningful change."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Student-Focused
Dillon Fail, Principal
Donahoe Elementary School
Why he was recognized: "From the moment you walk into the building, his leadership is evident. He leads with positivity, authenticity and genuine care, creating a school environment where everyone feels seen, valued and supported. ... Whether he is celebrating student successes, supporting them through challenges, or simply taking time to listen, students know he truly cares about who they are beyond academics."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
Jill Rich, Teacher and Center Director
Varina High School
Why she was recognized: "Mrs. Rich strongly believes in every one of us, and she puts forth the effort to help us succeed. Last year, I was drained of every bit of my confidence for our upcoming drone competition. ... She believed in me when I didn’t. She told me how proud of me she was for just showing up and not quitting when things weren’t looking the best. ... I wouldn’t have been able to do it if it hadn’t been for her original confidence in me."
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Debra Verbeeck, Clinic Aide
Gayton Elementary School
Why she was recognized: "Ms. Deb works really hard to learn everything about my medical needs. I have had a couple of open-heart surgeries, so sometimes I worry about my heart or how my body feels. Ms. Deb makes sure she knows what to do and always pays close attention to me. That makes me feel protected and comfortable, and it helps me focus on learning instead of worrying. I know she truly cares about me and my health."
Watch this video to hear from the nominator.
