Honoring Our A+ Educators
As a new school year begins, we’re proud to celebrate the incredible educators who make a difference in our schools and communities every single day. Through our A+ Educators program, we recognize teachers who go above and beyond—those who inspire, encourage, and bring out the best in their students.
This month, we’re excited to highlight three outstanding educators who embody the very best of what teaching can be.
🌟 Makenzie DeLea-King – North River Elementary School
Makenzie DeLea-King is a dedicated 3rd grade teacher at North River Elementary and a passionate, continuous learner. She is a relentless advocate for both academic and emotional excellence, fostering a classroom environment where every student feels supported, engaged, and ready to grow.
Makenzie’s commitment to professional growth extends beyond her classroom. This past July, she presented at the Math is Figureoutable Conference in Midlothian, VA, sharing high-impact math strategies with educators from across the state. She was also selected to present at the National Responsive Classroom Conference in Washington, D.C., where her session, “Growing Together: Building a Classroom Family through Morning Meetings” was chosen to help teachers nationwide strengthen their classroom communities.
Makenzie’s passion for teaching, learning, and collaboration continues to inspire both her students and colleagues.
🎶 Marshelle “Shelly” Moore – Riverheads Middle School
Marshelle (Shelly) Moore has been shaping young musicians’ lives for 28 years. Currently serving as the director of the Riverheads Middle School Band, she has also taught at Riverheads High School and Beverly Manor Middle School. Throughout her career, she has impacted thousands of students across Augusta County, building one of the largest band programs in the county.
Her students consistently shine at county and district events, a testament to her dedication and leadership. But Mrs. Moore’s influence goes beyond music instruction—she has played a pivotal role in organizing auditions, honor band events, and mentoring fellow educators. Known for greeting everyone with a smile and a cheerful “hey there rockstar!”, she embodies the spirit of encouragement and support.
We are proud to recognize Shelly as our Lingo Teacher of the Month, a true role model for music education.
💼 Melissa Talley – Wilson Memorial High School
Although only in her second year at Wilson Memorial High School, Melissa Talley has already become an invaluable part of the Business, Marketing, and Work-Based Learning program. With many years of teaching experience in Rockingham Schools and at Wilson Workforce, Melissa brings expertise, mentorship, and innovation to her role.
She has not only supported new colleagues in finding their footing but has also built a welcoming classroom environment that has boosted enrollment and student enthusiasm. Her forward-thinking instructional practices in Business and Marketing have raised participation and sparked deeper engagement among students.
Melissa is an outstanding educator, colleague, and mentor—an asset to Wilson Memorial and to our community.
Celebrating Excellence, Together
From math and morning meetings to music and marketing, these A+ Educators remind us of the incredible impact teachers have—both inside the classroom and beyond. We’re grateful to Makenzie, Shelly, and Melissa for their dedication, passion, and leadership.
As part of our program, each honoree receives a $20 gift card to Remedy Burger in downtown Staunton —a small token of appreciation for the tremendous work they do every day.
Here’s to a new school year filled with inspiration, growth, and community pride. Thank you to all our educators for being A+.
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.
