By Merle Monahan

Special to the News-Herald

Isle of Wight County Teacher of the Year Aaron Hill was recognized during a recent Virginia Business Appreciation Luncheon in Smithfield.

“I am very honored to receive this award, and I want to thank those who voted for me,” said Hill, who is the band director for Smithfield High School.

Under Hill’s four-year leadership, band membership has increased. The band was the only one representing Virginia at the recent Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington.

“Aaron’s commitment to his students, his school and his community are unparalleled,” School Superintendent Katrise Perera said. “We are proud to have him serve as the representative for all our outstanding teachers in the division.”

Hill earned a bachelor’s degree in music from Christopher Newport University in 2001 and a master’s degree in management from Troy University in 2006.

Prior to teaching, he served in the Army as the jazz band instructor for the U.S. Continental Army Band at Fort Monroe.

Hill is a member of the Isle of Wight Arts League and sponsor of the school’s Charter Leo Club.

The Isle of Wight-Smithfield-Windsor Chamber of Commerce and the Isle of Wight Department of Economic Development hosted the luncheon.