For over 20 years, Allen & Allen has been a proud sponsor of Virginia’s Teacher of the Year. Kicking off Teacher Appreciation Week, the Department of Education held a ceremony in downtown Richmond, where the winning teachers from each district were honored.
Scott Fitzgerald and Avanti Yamamoto
Soon after, Mrs. Avanti Yamamoto was announced as the 2025 Virginia Teacher of the Year. Yamamoto is a math instructor at Atlee High School in Hanover County. She believes in giving back to her community, and investing time in organizations that enrich education. She’s a current member of the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. She also serves as the Key Club International Sponsor at Atlee High School.
“We just have to believe in them. And when we believe in them, those beliefs turn into actions,” she said. “Those actions show students that they are capable. And when students believe that they are capable, the sky is the limit for them.”
Governor Glenn Youngkin
Attorney Scott Fitzgerald was on hand to congratulate her, and present a check on behalf of Allen & Allen. After the ceremony, there was a reception held at the Virginia Executive Mansion, where Governor Glenn Youngkin and his wife Suzanne hosted teachers, guests, and sponsors.
“Avanti truly embodies everything you want in a teacher – she is passionately committed to her students, colleagues, and school, and is motivated to see everyone achieve great success,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons.
Yamamoto’s daughter helped to hold the check in front of the Virginia Executive Mansion.
