By Matt de Simone
The Botetourt County School Board met in Fincastle last Thursday night, Dec. 11, and took time during the meeting to recognize employees, student athletes, and a board member for their achievements and service. Superintendent Dr. Janet Womack read aloud the nominations and recognitions on behalf of the division.
Botetourt County Public Schools (BCPS) November Employee of the Month Sally Bailey, an instructional assistant at Troutville Elementary School, was honored for her dedication and impact on students and staff. Reading from one of Bailey’s nominations, Womack said, “(Bailey) is a phenomenal employee. She wears so many hats and is practically like another teacher in our classrooms. On top of that, the students love her— going with Mrs. Bailey feels like a reward for them. She has a great attitude and is so knowledgeable all subjects and content area. Our school couldn’t run without her.”
Brandy Rogers, a social studies teacher at Read Mountain Middle School, was also named a November Employee of the Month. Womack noted Rogers’ leadership roles and contributions, saying, “Rogers serves as seventh grade department lead as well as history department chair. She planned, organized, and emceed a wonderful Veterans Day assembly at Read Mountain this year.”
The board also recognized Jonathan Cook for receiving the Virginia Council on Economic Education’s 2025 Outstanding Economic Educator award. The award honors an exceptional educator in the Commonwealth who demonstrates a commitment to preparing students with essential economic and financial literacy skills.
Several student athletes from Botetourt County high schools were acknowledged for their accomplishments at the state level. From Lord Botetourt High School, Ethan Thorne was recognized as the 2025 VHSL Class 3 Cross Country State Champion and Eric Duncan was named All-State in 2025 VHSL Class 3 Cross Country. Alisa Davidova, a junior at Lord Botetourt High School, was recognized as All-State in 2025 VHSL Class 3 Golf and noted as being committed to the University of Missouri.
Photos courtesy of BCPS
From James River High School, Mason Gilliland, a junior, was recognized as All-State and a member of the 2025 VHSL First Team 2A Golf.
The board also recognized Blue Ridge District School Board representative Matt East, who was awarded a certificate of recognition for his participation in the Virginia School Boards Association Delegate Assembly. The annual assembly brings together school board delegates from across the Commonwealth to discuss key issues, elect VSBA officers, amend bylaws, and establish legislative priorities for the upcoming year. Womack shared, “We (BCPS) extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. East’s for his dedication and service to education in Botetourt County for our students through his role as delegate with the VSBA Delegate Assembly.”
