In celebration of School Library Week, we would like to recognize the outstanding achievements of Laura Channing and Erin Curry, librarians at Stone Bridge High School, who have been named the 2024 Public Educators of the Year by the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area (VPHA). This award recognizes their outstanding efforts in bringing history to life for students and educators throughout Loudoun County. The two were honored at an awards presentation on March 11 at Buchanan Hall.
Channing and Curry developed a series of artifact trunks that chronicle multiple eras of American history. Each trunk contains original and reproduction artifacts, primary documents, lesson plans and digital resources, offering students hands-on learning experiences. Covering topics ranging from the American Revolution to the Vietnam War, these trunks will be available to educators across the county.
VPHA staff collaborated with Channing and Curry over the past year, assisting in artifact collection and providing historical context to enhance the learning experience.
The Public Educator of the Year award is presented annually to individuals or groups who demonstrate a strong commitment to sharing the history of the Heritage Area with a wider audience. VPHA’s educational programs serve thousands of students and families each year across five counties, fostering curiosity about the past and encouraging historic preservation.