AFA Virginia Honors Virginia State Teacher of the Year 

The D.W. Steele Sr. AFA Chapter and the Virginia State AFA honored Nathan Sekinger as both the Chapter and State Teacher of the Year at a special ceremony on August 23. The event, held at T. Benton Gayle Middle School, in Fredericksburg, Va., saw nearly 50 of Sekinger’s students, fellow teachers, and school leaders turn out to celebrate his exceptional contributions to STEM education. 

Katie Werner, Gayle school principal, praised Sekinger’s unwavering commitment to STEM education.  

“His dedication to promoting STEM skills, fostering commitment, and cultivating a love of literacy among our students is truly commendable,” Werner said. “He has inspired our students to reach new heights of achievement.” 

Through developing pace-setting STEM programs that are inclusive and fun, Sekinger has introduced numerous activities and opportunities designed to promote exploration. These include 3-D printing, growing plants in the on-campus garden, learning how to fly drones, and a Girls Who Code club. 

The awards presented to Sekinger included certificates of achievement, a Teacher of the Year windbreaker jacket, a lifetime Civil Air Patrol membership, and a $1,250 check, which was greatly appreciated.   

Lloyd Swede, president of the Steele Chapter, highlighted the importance of STEM educators. “STEM teachers are helping to shape the future of our nation by introducing students to exciting new concepts and offering a glimpse into what’s possible,” he remarked. 

Mark “Buster” Douglas, AFA State President, emphasized the AFA’s long-standing commitment to recognizing outstanding educators.  

“The AFA Teacher of the Year program has been in existence for several years. Along with grants and scholarships, our Association believes that recognizing those who educate America’s youth is a crucial part of our mission.  America’s future depends on STEM” Douglas said.  He also noted that the competition for state honors was highly competitive, but Sekinger’s package stood out for its diversity of programs and his personal investment in his students’ success. 

In his acceptance speech, Sekinger expressed his gratitude to both the chapter and state association for the recognition and awards. He also extended his thanks to his students for their enthusiasm and passion for exploration and discovery.