On Tuesday, September 10, the West Virginia Board of Education (WVBE) and the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) named Seth Skiles, a Rock Branch Elementary music instructor, the 2025 West Virginia Teacher of the Year at the Culture Center in Charleston. Gov. Jim Justice joined WVBE President Nancy J. White and State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt to make the announcement.

Skiles is a passionate six-year music educator and West Virginia native teaching at Rock Branch Elementary School. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Education from Anderson University and obtained a master’s degree in church music with a conducting concentration from Belmont University. After teaching elementary music in the Nashville area, Skiles returned to West Virginia, bringing acquired educational practices and cultural experiences to his home school district. His passion for arts education influences the classroom environment, creating a learning atmosphere driven by student engagement and proactive learning.

“It is a highlight of the year to celebrate this occasion, and Mr. Skile’s love of teaching is one of the reasons why,” said WVBE President White. “His educational background is second to none, and his desire to pour that preparation into the lives of our children is admirable. The Board congratulates him and looks forward to his tenure as the state’s 2025 teacher of the year.”

“Mr. Skiles embodies the creativity and dedication to teaching that makes the classroom an active and thriving learning environment,” said Superintendent Blatt. “His enthusiasm is infectious, and his students reflect his passion as they gravitate to him and his instruction. I am pleased to welcome him to the teacher of the year family and tradition.”

As the 2025 Teacher of the Year, Skiles will receive free use of a vehicle for one year courtesy of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia; cash awards of $5,000 from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, $5,000 from Horace Mann Insurance Solutions; $500 from the West Virginia Lottery; a weekend stay at a West Virginia state park from the West Virginia Department of Tourism; a $1,000 grant from the West Virginia Education Association; and $500 from the American Federation of Teachers.

West Virginia’s Teacher of the Year program has recognized outstanding educators since 1964, making it one of the longest-running programs of its kind in the nation. It showcases the significant impact teachers have in West Virginia classrooms. Finalists are honored for their integrity, professionalism and passion for education, acknowledging them among the best educators in the Mountain State.