All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Gov. Justice, state education leaders honor 2020 West Virginia Teacher of the Year

CHARLESTON, WV – Today, Gov. Jim Justice joined State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven Paine for a ceremony to recognize the 2020 West Virginia Teacher of the Year: Jennifer Schwertfeger.

The Governor was also joined by representatives from Toyota Motor Manufacturing of West Virginia, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Horace Mann Insurance Company and the West Virginia Lottery to present Schwertfeger with the use of a new car from Toyota and monetary awards totaling more than $10,000.

“I’ve said for a long time that education needs to be our centerpiece in West Virginia,” Gov. Justice said. “Since I walked in the door, I’ve made it a point to celebrate our great teachers and Jennifer Schwertfeger is among the very best of the best. She is a shining example of teaching excellence and Cathy and I are thrilled to congratulate Jennifer on this accomplishment.”

Schwertfeger is a 10-year veteran science teacher from Cameron High School in Marshall County where she currently teaches grades 10 through 12. Her courses include biology, human anatomy, AP Biology and physics. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from West Liberty University and a Master of Arts degree in Science Education from West Virginia University. She serves as chairperson of the science department, member of the school’s Green Team, and past president of Faculty Senate. She also serves her peers as a Marshall County teacher leader, new teacher mentor and a cooperating teacher for future educators.

“I am looking forward to an exciting year of getting to meet amazing educational professionals as we work together to uplift our West Virginia teachers, giving them the respect they deserve and to make a positive, lasting impact on our youth, who we are blessed to have in our care every day,” Schwertfeger said. “I view education as the most important issue of current times. Our society must place a high value on the education of our youth because the future of our communities, state and nation depend on uplifting our students.”

Schwertfeger believes all students, regardless of academic ability level, background knowledge or learning challenges, deserve equal access to educational experiences. She also believes science is a verb – something to do and experience. In her classroom, she has transformed content delivery from traditional “cookbook” lab experiences and worksheets to a “hands-on, minds-on” interactive approach. She reminds her students, “Science is you and all around you.” She is currently working toward her National Board Certification.

Toyota donated a new car to Schwertfeger for use as she travels across the Mountain State to fulfill her duties as Teacher of the Year.

“Toyota West Virginia is proud to continue our long-standing support of the West Virginia Teacher of the Year Program,” Toyota Motor Manufacturing West Virginia President Srini Matam said. “We are honored to help celebrate dynamic educators throughout our state who inspire West Virginia’s students to discover their potential.”

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield West Virginia also honored Schwertfeger, presenting her with a $5,000 check.

“Highmark West Virginia is honored to recognize our state’s Teacher of the Year for the 19th consecutive year,” said Jim Fawcett, Highmark West Virginia president. “Jennifer already serves as a model for her students and peers throughout West Virginia, and we are thrilled for the opportunity to help her in her journey as she inspires others inside and out of the classroom.”

Horace Mann Insurance Company presented Schwertfeger with a check for $5,000. Additionally, the insurance provider donated $500 through Donors Choose to the six West Virginia Teacher of the Year finalists.

“Horace Mann Insurance Company has a standing commitment to helping teachers plan for bright futures,” Horace Mann President and CEO Marita Zuraitis said. “We are grateful for the opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of educators throughout the nation, and today, to recognize Jennifer Schwertfeger, the 2020 West Virginia Teacher of the Year.”

The West Virginia Lottery sponsored the Teacher of the Year Program, providing a $300 grant to each of the county Teacher of the Year winners to use in their classrooms.

“The West Virginia Lottery is a proud sponsor of the West Virginia Teacher of the Year Program,” West Virginia Lottery Director John Myers said. “Our teachers make a tremendous impact in the lives of our children and our future. We are excited that our sponsorship benefits teachers and students in every county.”

Representatives from the West Virginia chapter of the American Federation of Teachers (AFTWV) attended the event in support of Schwertfeger. AFTWV President Fred Albert presented Jennifer with a check for $500.

Coca-Cola, SMART Industries and Blenko Glass Company are also sponsors of the West Virginia Teacher of the Year Program.

In addition to her statewide duties, Jennifer will be considered for the National Teacher of the Year Award. The national winner will be announced in April.

Find out more about the Teacher of the Year Program including information about the 2020 winner by visiting https://wvde.us/wv-teacher-of-the-year-application/.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Nancy Lea Lantz

Nancy Lea Lantz, 74, of Philippi, passed away July 13, 2025, and is remembered as a devoted homemaker, church member, and camper, survived by her children, relatives, friends, and her dog Tiny.

Buckhannon awards $50,000 in opioid settlement funds to Wesleyan for addiction counseling scholarships

City council approved allocating $50,000 in opioid settlement funds to West Virginia Wesleyan College for scholarships to support local addiction counseling education, aiming to combat drug addiction in the Buckhannon area.

Faith Baptist Church to host Vacation Bible School from July 21-25

Faith Baptist Church will host a Vacation Bible School for kindergarten through sixth grade children July 21-25, featuring nightly sessions from 6 to 8 p.m. and a family fun night on the final evening.
Summer basketball

Summer basketball league tips off week three

The Upshur County Summer Basketball League completed its third week at West Virginia Wesleyan College, with standout performances from Evan Parr, Josh Trent, Quentin Cooley, Rayden Triplett, and several games decided by forfeits.

Small Business Development Center names Lyla Grandstaff as new coach serving the Buckhannon area

The West Virginia Small Business Development Center has appointed Lyla Grandstaff, an experienced business consultant and educator, as the new business coach serving Buckhannon and surrounding counties.

Upshur Parish House kicks off annual backpack program to support local students

The Upshur Parish House has launched its annual Back-to-School Backpack Program, seeking donations of new school supplies and hygiene items to help local students return to class prepared and confident.

Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur sets ambitious goals for growth and outreach

The Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur unveiled an ambitious multi-year plan to grow club membership, boost outreach through digital and in-person initiatives, expand fundraising, and increase community involvement and accessibility.

Charles Wilson “Chuck” Canfield

Charles Wilson “Chuck” Canfield, beloved husband, father, and grandfather known for his kindness and humor, passed peacefully at home on April 5, 2025, leaving behind a devoted family and many friends.

Ella Margaret Moore

Ella Margaret Moore, a devoted Christian and active member of Reger United Methodist Church who leaves behind a large, loving family, passed away peacefully at age 91 in Buckhannon.