The Virgin Islands Department of Education has named five educators as candidates for the 2025 – 2026 St. Croix District Teacher of the Year. The department described the group as professionals who demonstrate instructional excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to student achievement.
“Each of these educators represents the best of our public education system. Their passion, innovation, and dedication uplift our schools, empower our students, and strengthen our community,” Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington said in a press release.
The candidates are:
Adreian Sato, St. Croix Central High School
Sato serves as the Department Chairperson for Special Education and as a ninth-grade resource teacher. He has 11 years of teaching experience and is known for collaborating with teachers, families, and administrators to support compliance, student growth, and academic success.
Jayson Arcilla, Pearl B. Larsen PreK-8 School
Arcilla teaches eighth-grade science and social studies. He has taught for 10 years and coaches the school’s Science Bowl and Junior Solar Sprint teams. His instructional approach encourages inquiry and problem-solving.
Joanie Phillip, Ricardo Richards Elementary School
Phillip is a sixth-grade English language arts teacher who began her career in 2008. She serves as a union representative for the American Federation of Teachers Local 1826 and also teaches in the St. Croix Adult Education Program, supporting adult learners working toward academic goals.
Ronda Campbell, St. Croix Career and Technical Education Center
Campbell joined the department in 1997 and teaches business at CTEC. She has been instrumental in developing the School-to-Work Program, which connects students with internship opportunities in local businesses.
Jennifer Novero-Gantan, St. Croix Educational Complex High School
Novero-Gantan is an International Cultural Exchange teacher who instructs 11th-grade trigonometry and AP calculus. She works with the Mathematics Department to create a data-driven instructional cycle focused on assessment and improvement, preparing students for college-level academics.
VIDE stated that one of the five educators will be selected as the 2025 – 2026 St. Croix District Teacher of the Year and recognized at the annual ceremony later this school year.
