Honoring Excellence in Education: This Month’s A+ Educators

March 2026: A+ Educator Award Recipients

Behind every great school is a team of educators who pour their time, energy, and heart into helping students succeed. Our A+ Educator Awards give us the opportunity each month to shine a light on those individuals who make a lasting impact—both inside and outside the classroom. We’re thrilled to recognize this month’s Elementary, Middle, and High School A+ Educators, whose commitment to students and colleagues helps make our local schools such a special place to learn.

Elementary A+ Educator of the Month: Wes Dimitt

“Our Elementary Teacher of the month is Wes Dimitt, the Physical Education Teacher at Stuarts Draft Elementary School.  Wes Dimitt is not only an outstanding Physical Education teacher, but also a role model for the students at Stuarts Draft Elementary School. Students respect him, enjoy their time in his class, seek his approval, and work hard to meet the high expectations he sets for them. Mr. Dimitt uses physical education and sports as a powerful way to connect with students. He has a unique ability to meet each student where they are, encouraging them to grow, improve their skills, and celebrate their successes at every level.

Beyond the school day, Mr. Dimitt has also dedicated his time to coaching throughout the community, both within Augusta County Public Schools and through youth organizations in the Stuarts Draft area. His commitment to students extends well beyond the gym.

Mr. Dimitt is equally respected among his colleagues for the positive impact he has on students through encouragement and support in all areas, not just Health and Physical Education. His dedication to helping students succeed makes a lasting difference in the lives of those he teaches.”  

Middle School A+ Educator of the Month: Kathy Gingerich

“Kathy Gingerich, Reading Specialist at Buffalo Gap Middle is our Middle School Teacher of the Month.

Ms. Gingerich is an excellent reading specialist, colleague, and leader. This year the Virginia Literacy Act was fully implemented in middle schools across Virginia. With the VLA, middle schools have had to navigate and implement many changes to support struggling readers. To support teachers at BGMS, Ms. Gingerich took the lead in implementing new reading plans with students as well as helping teachers navigate how to best provide interventions for struggling readers. Her leadership has helped ease her colleagues' minds about many of the changes, and, importantly, student achievement in reading has improved. For these reasons and many others, Ms. Gingerish is our Middle School school Teacher of the Month.” 

High School A+ Educator of the Month: Allison Ullrich

“The High School teacher of the month is Allison Ullrich. She has been teaching Family and Consumer Science for over 10 years at BGHS. During that time, she has maintained a fantastic FCCLA program. Every year, Allison has brought students to regional and state conferences, and in the process, mentored new FCS teachers within our division as they learn about FCCLA. She has always been collaborative and collegial in her work with students, teachers, and school leaders. 

She has involved her students in many experiences that increase school spirit and benefit the community. She often hosts luncheons and events that involve her students in all aspects of their course content through real-life experience. 

Allison is a wonderful teacher whose dedication, professionalism, collaborative and approachable nature, making her a shining and guiding star for other teachers on how to run a successful FCS classroom and FCCLA program.”  

Join Us in Celebrating These Educators

Please join us in honoring these exceptional educators for their incredible contributions to Augusta County Public Schools. Their passion and commitment inspire us all and remind us of the lasting influence teachers have in shaping the future.

As part of our program, each honoree receives a $20 gift card to Chicano Boy Taco in downtown Staunton —a small token of appreciation for the tremendous work they do every day.

If you have questions about your Lingo services, we’d love to talk with you. You can reach us at (540) 712-0300 or by emailing us at getservice@mgwnetworks.com.