Hampton High School teacher named outstanding economic educator

Hampton High School marketing teacher Rhonda Russell has been selected as the Virginia Council on Economic Education’s (VCEE) 2025 Outstanding Economic Educator for the Christopher Newport University Center. This prestigious honor is awarded to educators across Virginia who demonstrate exceptional dedication to teaching economic concepts and financial literacy, ensuring students are prepared with essential skills for future success.

 

“Russell’s commitment to engaging instruction, real-world application, and empowering students with financial understanding set her apart during the nomination and selection process,” said Amy Faires, director of special programs for the Virginia Council of Economic Education.

 

Russell was formally recognized at Hampton High School on Friday, January 23, 2026. In addition to the recognition, Russell received a $100 honorarium.

 

“I am thrilled to share that Rhonda Russell has been selected as the Virginia Council on Economic Education’s 2025 Outstanding Economic Educator for the Christopher Newport University Center,” said executive principal of Hampton High School, Haneef Majied. “This well-deserved honor celebrates Ms. Russell and other educators across the Commonwealth who go above and beyond to inspire students and equip them with essential economic and financial literacy skills that last a lifetime.”

 

Hampton City Schools congratulates Ms. Russell on this well-deserved accomplishment and celebrates her continued impact on students, the school community, and economic education statewide.