South Man Elementary Teacher Stephanie Fryer Honored With Above And Beyond Award

Stephanie Fryer, a special education teacher at South Man Elementary in Logan County, earned West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s November 2025 Above and Beyond Award. Fryer was recognized during a surprise schoolwide assembly. Students and teachers held heartfelt signs, while her principal and colleagues prepared refreshments and special touches to make the celebration unforgettable. As part of the recognition, Fryer 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 the award.

Fryer’s enthusiasm for education began during her childhood, when caring and patient teachers made a lasting difference in her confidence. “I was blessed to have exceptional teachers and a wonderful elementary school principal who made sure I was never overlooked,” Fryer shared. “Their encouragement and genuine care helped me grow in confidence and develop a love of learning that I now strive to pass on through teaching.”

That same sense of care and encouragement is reflected in Fryer’s work today. According to her principal, Angel Harris, Fryer serves as a dedicated member of the Local School Improvement Council, contributing to decision-making and school growth initiatives. As the school’s Teacher Leader, she supports colleagues by leading professional development and mentoring new educators as they begin their careers. Fryer also serves as chair of the Professional Learning Community, where she promotes continuous professional growth.

Fryer is known for creating a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment where every child feels valued and supported. She works persistently to meet students’ academic, social and emotional needs. “My approach to teaching all students is grounded in care, flexibility and a deep belief that every student can grow,” she said. “I meet students where they are and celebrate all growth, whether it comes in big leaps or small victories.”

Fryer hopes her students leave her classroom believing in themselves. “I want them to know that they matter,” she said. “I hope they value who they are, recognize their strengths and understand that their ideas and voices are important. I also want them to understand that mistakes are part of learning and that challenges do not define their worth.”

Fryer’s commitment to students extends well beyond the classroom. She volunteers as a Special Olympics coach and serves as a Math Field Day coach and Social Studies Fair sponsor, providing students with opportunities to build confidence, teamwork and leadership skills.

Reflecting on the recognition, Fryer expressed gratitude for the educators who have supported her along the way.

“I am deeply grateful for the caring principals and teachers I have worked with,” she said. “Thank you for this recognition and the opportunity to spotlight our small but mighty school.”

Through her compassion, leadership and unwavering commitment to students and colleagues, Mrs. Stephanie Fryer truly goes above and beyond.

Each month of the school year, WVPB has an esteemed panel of judges who select one deserving teacher who goes above and beyond for the students in West Virginia. If you know of a deserving teacher who goes “Above and Beyond,” please click here to nominate them.