
Alumnus Named New Teacher of the Year
June 2, 2008David Weaver, a 2007 graduate of the Teacher Licensure Program, was recently named New Teacher of the Year for Hanover County Public Schools. Weaver completed his teacher licensure preparation coursework last year after “switching careers” from his position at Grace Street Residential Designs, where he did architectural drafting and design work. He teaches eighth grade civics at Chickahominy Middle School in Mechanicsville.
Below is an excerpt from a longer Q&A session with Weaver. The full interview will be published in the Fall 2008 Schedule of Evening School classes (print version).
Where and when did you earn your bachelor’s degree?
I started my bachelor’s degree at JMU many years ago, but it wasn’t a priority for me at that point in my life. As I progressed in my professional career I came to realize I needed a degree, so I took classes here and there over the next several years. My wife, Terri, and I moved to Richmond about 5 years ago, and with our kids out of college and on their own, I finally ran out of excuses. I enrolled in U of R’s Continuing Studies program and I received by Bachelor of Liberal Arts in 2007.How would you describe your experience at University of Richmond?
Stimulating and Engaging. The program at U of R allowed me to articulate ideas and principles that I have held for a long time but never had a forum to voice. The instructors introduced me to areas of literature, history, and the arts that truly expanded my world view.You were just named the Beginning Teacher of the Year for Hanover County. How does that make you feel?
Incredibly lucky. I feel very fortunate to have landed where I did, surrounded by supportive administrators, seasoned professional educators, and dedicated staff.