ACTE Announces Virginia Teacher as National Award Finalist
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Michelle Hill Williams, Teacher at Mathews County Public Schools in Mathews, VA as the 2026 ACTE Region II New Teacher of the Year. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) teachers at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.
After the challenges of teaching online during COVID, Michelle Hill Williams knew she needed a new direction in her career. In March 2022, she passed the additional licensure test to teach Family and Consumer Science (FACS)—formerly known as Home Economics—and by May of that year, her principal proposed adding FACS classes to the middle school elective rotation.
At the time, no funds were allocated to support the program. Determined to make it a reality, Williams began building relationships with individuals and organizations who shared her vision of bringing “back to the basics” skills to students. With approval from the administration and school board, she rallied a small team of volunteers to transform the classroom—painting walls, refurbishing cabinetry, and creating a welcoming space in just three days.
To further equip the program, Williams created an Amazon Wish List and shared it on social media. Packages soon poured in from community members, former classmates, and even strangers, donating thousands of dollars in supplies. Over time, more than $80,000 in donations has been received to establish the FACS program and fully fund student participation in leadership conferences. Her students have attended the Virginia State Leadership and Recognition Conference for three consecutive years and the FCCLA National Leadership Conference in Seattle, Orlando, and beyond—earning awards at every event.
Beyond the classroom, Williams has shared the story of her program with civic groups and community organizations, including the Ruritan Club, Bay Quilters Association, and Central Village Homemakers Association, as well as serving as a guest speaker at the annual MayFaire Festival.
This year, she is leading the expansion of the program into a larger space at Mathews High School, complete with new appliances and four fully equipped kitchen stations. While continuing to teach middle school students, Williams will now offer a broader range of courses to high school students, including Independent Living Skills, Nutrition and Wellness, and Family and Consumer Science Exploratory I, II, and III.
Through her vision, persistence, and community partnerships, Williams has not only built a thriving Family and Consumer Science program from the ground up but also created lasting opportunities for students to gain practical skills and leadership experience.
Williams is one of five finalists for the 2026 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 9, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.
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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities.
