Sherry Marie Singewald Kelly teaches at Corporate Landing Middle School in Virginia Beach, VA, where she has served as a teacher for 11 years. Previously she taught at the middle and elementary school level in the same school district. Ms. Kelly teaches seventh-grade life science classes to at-risk students, ages 11–14, who are three to four years below grade level in reading and mathematics. She also teaches a science remediation class. She serves as the lead science teacher and a new teacher mentor. She has served for 11 years as a PTA officer and board member and has acted as sponsor for the Student Council Association.
Ms. Kelly is known for her passion, content knowledge, commitment, and desire for continual growth as a teacher. Colleagues view her as a leader who leads by example; she motivates both teachers and students alike and impacts them in a positive way. Ms. Kelly is knowledgeable about research-based trends in education. She has geared her classes to using experimental methods, and including them in classes where students are performing below grade level. Peers have commented that Ms. Kelly has helped challenged students achieve academically. Her field-based environmental projects positively impact students and the community.
Ms. Kelly has been the recipient of several awards. She won the PTA Council Soaring Eagle Award and the I Make a Difference Award, and she has been the recipient of two Teacher of the Year Awards. She was also honored by the Virginia Congress of Parents and Teachers with a Distinguished Service award and National and State Life memberships. She was named Distinguished Education for Corporate Landing Middle School this year.
Ms. Kelly holds National Board Certification in early adolescent science. She has a B.S. in elementary education from Old Dominion University. She also mentors National Board candidates, teaching Board and professional development classes for the school division.