Teacher Rachel Morgan and paraprofessional Haven Bittinger work with students in Sharon Elementary School’s Early Childhood Special Education classroom. Their dedication has helped the school earn a spot on Virginia’s Quality Birth to Five Improvement Honor Roll, recognizing top gains in classroom interaction quality. (AHPS Photo)
Sharon Recognized for Growth in Preschool Quality
LOW MOOR — Sharon Elementary School has been recognized as one of the region’s top early childhood programs for improvement, earning a place on Virginia’s Quality Birth to Five (VQB5) Improvement Honor Roll. The school ranks among the top 10 percent in the state for gains in classroom interaction quality.
The recognition celebrates the work of teacher Rachel Morgan and paraprofessional Haven Bittinger, who lead the school’s Early Childhood Special Education classroom.
“Ms. Morgan and Ms. Bittinger care deeply for their students and families,” said Principal Chris Jones. “They welcome each child with warmth and understanding, creating a classroom where every student feels valued and supported. Their passion for early learning truly shines.”
VQB5, led by the Virginia Department of Education, focuses on improving the interactions between teachers and children in areas such as emotional support, communication, and engagement. Research shows the areas are key factors in children’s development and school readiness. By assessing and enhancing these everyday classroom experiences, the system helps ensure that all Virginia children enter kindergarten prepared to learn and thrive.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin and the VDOE recently announced the release of quality ratings for 3,293 early childhood programs across Virginia. This includes 494 programs recognized on one of three new Honor Rolls, highlighting excellence and improvement in early education.
Sharon Elementary’s recognition on the Improvement Honor Roll reflects the dedication and teamwork of its staff, families, and students.
“This is a wonderful honor for Sharon Elementary,” said Jones. “Our teachers and families share a deep commitment to helping every child start school ready to learn and succeed.”
Parents can learn more about local preschool options and view Virginia’s early childhood quality ratings at https://earlychildhoodquality.doe.virginia.gov/
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