When you step inside Anna Drew’s seventh grade science classroom at Shawsville Middle School (SMS), you will see firsthand how she brings science to life. Whether it is a hands-on DNA extraction lab using fresh strawberries and bananas to illustrate the concept of DNA; her annual March Mammal Madness project where students research mammals and pit them against each other in a battle to advance through brackets; or learning about the periodic table through hero and villain elements such as a fairytale, Drew’s enthusiasm for science is contagious. She guides students in setting goals, based on prior performance data and work, delivers tailored curricula to meet their individual needs, and helps them track progress throughout the year.
Drew’s commitment and leadership extend beyond the classroom. As the seventh grade team leader and science department head, she regularly looks for ways to mentor new teachers. She participates on the instructional leadership committee and school improvement committee as well as serves as the Section 504 plan coordinator and is active in positive behavioral intervention and supports (PBIS). At the district level, Drew is a member of the science curriculum development committee and helped to design a comprehensive remediation and intervention program, which resulted in positive increases in middle school science outcomes.
In the community, Drew partners with Angel Tree as part of her sponsorship of the Junior Beta Club, to provide Christmas gifts to students in need. She coaches the school’s volleyball and track teams and often holds open gym in the evenings and weekends for SMS teens. You can also find her tutoring students after school through her volunteer work with the local Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Virginia. Drew’s lasting impact is demonstrated by the many former students who regularly return to visit her classroom.
Drew is a two-time graduate of Virginia Tech, earning her bachelor’s degree in animal science in 2016 and her Master of Arts in curriculum and instruction in 2017.
Press Release: Milken Educator Award – the "Oscar of Teaching" – Honors Shawsville Teacher
