The Virginia Middle School Association (VMSA) is delighted to announce Elizabeth “Lizzie” Williamson of Holman Middle School in Henrico County as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 – 2025 Master in the Middle Teacher of the Year Award. Ms. Williamson is recognized for her exceptional dedication to fostering community, inclusivity, and innovative learning experiences for all students.
Ms. Williamson’s impact extends far beyond the music classroom. She is a champion for every student at Holman Middle School, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and connected. Her commitment to building community is evident in her leadership as the SCA sponsor and her collaborative efforts across various subject areas.
“Lizzie Williamson exemplifies the spirit of the Master in the Middle Teacher of the Year Award,” says colleagues. “Her passion for connecting with students, her dedication to inclusivity, and her innovative approach to teaching make her an exceptional educator who truly makes a difference.”
Ms. Williamson’s dedication to student growth is evident in her engaging chorus classes, where she incorporates problem-solving and real-world scenarios. But her most profound impact comes from her work with music collaboration classes, designed for students with diverse physical, mental, and emotional needs. Recognizing the lack of existing curriculum, Ms. Williamson took the initiative to create her own, ensuring these students had access to meaningful and enriching musical experiences.
To further support these students and build their confidence, Ms. Williamson organized small, intimate concerts during the school day, providing a safe and supportive environment for them to showcase their talents and overcome performance anxiety. These concerts allowed students with physical challenges to shine and demonstrated the power of music to connect and uplift.
Ms. Williamson’s commitment to professional growth is equally impressive. She actively seeks out and participates in a wide range of STEAM and Diversity/Inclusivity courses, demonstrating her dedication to continuous learning and improvement.
The VMSA congratulates Elizabeth “Lizzie” Williamson on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates her outstanding contributions to middle level education.
