RADFORD—Virginia Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year Marlena “K” Preston of Montgomery County is one of six recipients of the National Agriculture in the Classroom organization’s 2015 Excellence in Teaching Award.

The award program recognizes educators for their successful efforts in teaching agricultural concepts. Recipients receive a $500 honorarium and funds to travel to the annual National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference. The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the National Agriculture in the Classroom Consortium.

Preston teaches kindergarten at Belview Elementary School in Radford.

“We are so proud of K for her outstanding accomplishment. This award is the highest honor for teachers through the National Agriculture in the Classroom Consortium,” explained Tammy Maxey, Virginia AITC senior education program coordinator. “This is the second year that Virginia (AITC) has recognized a Teacher of the Year, and we felt strongly that K had the qualifications and passion for agriculture that made her stand out among her peers.”

Media: Contact Maxey at 804-290-1143.