Teacher of the Year
Leigh Anne Chappell - 2027 Teacher of the Year
New Castle Elementary
Leigh Anne Chappell is a dedicated second grade teacher at New Castle Elementary School who has proudly served the Colonial School District for the past six years. A graduate of the University of Delaware, Leigh Anne earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education in 2020. During her student teaching experience at Eisenberg Elementary, she discovered her passion for the district and its students—a connection that ultimately led her to begin substitute teaching and, soon after, launch her full-time teaching career at New Castle Elementary, where she has remained ever since.
At the heart of Leigh Anne’s work is a deep commitment to building meaningful relationships with her students. She believes that every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported, and she works intentionally to create a classroom environment where students know they belong. Her approach begins long before students enter her classroom—greeting younger students in the hallways, learning their names, and building trust early on so that by the time they reach second grade, they already feel a sense of comfort and connection.
Leigh Anne goes above and beyond to support her students both inside and outside the classroom. She proactively connects with families before the school year begins, attends student events when invited, and consistently shows up in ways that meet each child’s unique needs. Whether it’s offering a quiet space during lunch, providing extra support during challenging moments, or even riding the bus with a student to ensure their safety and success, Leigh Anne’s actions demonstrate her unwavering dedication. Her students know she holds them to high expectations—but also that she will always be there to help them rise to meet them.
Inspired by her own childhood experience of finding strength and support in a teacher during difficult times, Leigh Anne chose this profession to be that same steady, caring presence for her students. She lives out the Colonial School District’s “Power of WE” by being bold in her advocacy, inclusive in her approach, and authentic in every relationship she builds. Through initiatives like classroom community-building and the Buddy Program, she fosters a culture of belonging and connection for all.
Outside of the classroom, Leigh Anne enjoys reading, practicing yoga, and spending time at the beach. Her dedication to her students is evident in her daily one-hour commute from New Jersey—a testament to her love for the Colonial community.
Leigh Anne’s philosophy is beautifully captured in a quote she lives by:
"Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them." – Rita Pierson
