Ronald Talbott, a special education teacher at Jackson Middle School in Wood County, earned West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s January 2026 Above and Beyond Award, which honors the excellence and creativity of Mountain State teachers. The award was presented by West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s Education team during a surprise schoolwide assembly. Talbott received a monetary award and a signature Blenko Glass apple paperweight. The West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office, presenter of the SMART529 college savings program, proudly sponsors this award.
At Jackson Middle School, Talbott is known for creating a classroom where students feel supported, respected and encouraged to grow. He works to ensure students know that making mistakes is part of the learning process. “I always strive to make all my students feel welcome,” Talbott said. “I believe it is important for students to know that we all make mistakes and that it is a part of the learning process. That’s why I emphasize my learning environment as one where it’s safe to be wrong.”
Talbott helps build confidence and independence by creating a space where students can learn without fear of judgment. His nomination notes that he adapts lessons with creativity and compassion to meet the needs of students with learning disabilities, emotional disorders and developmental delays. He uses engaging strategies to help students connect with lessons. He breaks down complex math concepts using easy-to-remember techniques. During reading lessons, he often brings stories to life with expressive character voices that keep students engaged.
Photo Credit: Brittany McGuire/West Virginia Public Broadcasting
Beyond the classroom, Talbott volunteers his time to support extracurricular opportunities like Maker’s Club and the Explorer Manufacturing video competition. These experiences give students the chance to explore STEM concepts through hands-on learning and teamwork. “It gives students an opportunity to experience something they may not otherwise get to experience,” Talbott said. “Sometimes it opens avenues for a new future. I have had students realize a career that they didn’t even know about is a possibility for them.”
Talbott said working in special education has been one of the most rewarding parts of his career. He encourages students to be patient with themselves and often reminds them to add the word “yet” to the end of a sentence. “You may not understand this — yet,” he said. “We are too hard on ourselves and need to extend ourselves grace and understanding. We are all humans with unique abilities.”
To show that everyone learns at their own pace, he shares a simple analogy: “You put popcorn kernels in a pot and apply the same oil and heat. They don’t all pop at the same time, but if you keep applying the heat, eventually they all pop.” Talbott believes helping students build confidence can make a lasting difference.
Each month of the school year, West Virginia Public Broadcasting honors a teacher who goes above and beyond for their students. Community members are encouraged to nominate outstanding educators who inspire and support learners across West Virginia. If you know of a deserving teacher who goes “Above and Beyond,” please click here to nominate them.
