Each year, Chesterfield County Public Schools recognizes two Outstanding Teachers of the Gifted: one from elementary and one from secondary.
Ecoff Elementary teacher Hannah Nyquist is the 2025 Elementary Outstanding Teacher of the Gifted. She joined Chesterfield County Public Schools in 2018 and has been at Ecoff Elementary since 2022. One of her nominators said Nyquist has the knowledge, skills and heart to inspire gifted students and create an environment where they can thrive. Another nominator praised Nyquist’s “unique ability to create an environment where students feel supported and challenged. She encourages her students to take intellectual risks and to approach problems with curiosity and perseverance. This approach helps students develop confidence in their abilities and resilience to overcome obstacles. Ms. Nyquist’s students are not only successful academically but also grow as independent thinkers who are ready to tackle complex challenges.”
Elizabeth Davis Middle teacher Kristal Norman is the 2025 Secondary Outstanding Teacher of the Gifted. She joined Chesterfield County Public Schools in 1995 and has been at Elizabeth Davis Middle since 2016. One of her nominators praised Norman’s commitment to fostering the intellectual, creative and emotional growth of gifted students. Another nominator wrote: “As a parent of three former students who had the privilege of being in Mrs. Norman’s gifted classes, I have witnessed firsthand her remarkable dedication, innovative teaching methods and profound impact on her students. … She creates a classroom environment that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally supportive, allowing students to challenge themselves while feeling safe to make mistakes on their learning journey. … Her ability to create a learning environment where students feel both challenged and supported is a rare and invaluable gift.”
This webpage provides details about gifted education in Chesterfield County Public Schools.
