The 2026 Barbara Nichols Educator of the Year Award recognizes exceptional leadership, dedication, and impact in middle-level education across Virginia. Presented by the Virginia Middle School Association (VMSA), this prestigious honor celebrates individuals who embody the spirit of excellence in supporting students, educators, and school communities during the critical middle school years.
This year’s recipient, Dr. Ken Nicely, Superintendent of Roanoke County Public Schools (RCPS), stands as a shining example of transformative educational leadership. With a career spanning more than three decades rooted in Virginia’s classrooms and administrative offices, Dr. Nicely has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to middle-level education, instructional excellence, and the overall success of students and staff.
Dr. Nicely began his journey in education in 1993 as a Spanish teacher at Cave Spring High School in Roanoke County Public Schools. In 2002, he transitioned to administration as an assistant principal at Hidden Valley Middle School (HVMS), where he directly engaged with the unique developmental needs of middle school students. By 2006, he was appointed principal of HVMS, a position he held with distinction. His leadership trajectory continued upward: Director of Secondary Instruction and Technology in 2012, Director of Administration in 2016, Assistant Superintendent of Administration in spring 2018, and Superintendent on August 9, 2018.
As Superintendent, Dr. Nicely has led RCPS with a vision centered on equity, innovation, and student success — emphasizing rigorous academics, social-emotional learning, and technology integration. His tenure has been marked by collaborative decision-making, strong community partnerships, and a focus on empowering educators at all levels.
Dr. Nicely’s contributions extend beyond Roanoke County. As a Past President of VMSA, he has advocated statewide for middle-level best practices, and his service on the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) Board of Trustees underscores his national influence. In 2025, he was named the Virginia Association of School Superintendents Region VI Superintendent of the Year, even as he prepares to retire at the end of the 2025–2026 school year after a remarkable 33-year career with RCPS.
Congratulations to Dr. Ken Nicely, the 2026 Barbara Nichols Educator of the Year — a well-deserved recognition of a distinguished career devoted to educational excellence.