Teachers are a special breed. They are driven by a love of learning and a desire to impact young lives. They spend countless hours devising lesson plans, working individually with students before and after school and volunteering their time, seeking not recognition for their efforts but rather the smile of a student whose imagination has been captivated; a hug from a student who needs one in return; or the words of thanks from a student whose mind has grasped a challenging topic.

In the Henrico Citizen's first-annual 'Top Teachers' issue, we honor 20 of the finest educators in Henrico, as nominated by our readers. These are their stories.

Honoring 20 who make a difference (click to read introduction)

(Click on a teacher's name to read his or her profile article.)

Erin Bourne, Byrd M.S., eighth grade







Blair Flynn, Nuckols Farm E.S., second grade







Janet Givens, Echo Lake E.S., first grade







Mesa Hinkle, Glen Allen E.S., first grade







Annette Hodges, Donahoe E.S., fifth grade







Emily Mason, Baker E.S., third grade







Jill Morris, Pemberton E.S., first grade







Karla Ott, Rivers Edge E.S., fourth grade







Philip Riddle, Brookland M.S., sixth grade







Todd Ritter, Henrico H.S., drama







Katie Schwieder, Fairfield M.S., sixth grade







Lourie Sledd, Freeman H.S., exceptional education







Ryan Stein, Pinchbeck E.S., fourth grade







Lance Teillon, Varina H.S., NJROTC







Chris Tickle, Steward School, fourth grade







Matt Togna, Tucker H.S., 10th-12 grades







Stephanie Tucker, Crestview E.S., preschool







Samuel Turner, Holman M.S., sixth-eighth grades







Debbie Waldenmaier, Colonial Trail E.S., third grade







Stephen Worfolk, Jackson Davis E.S., third grade