Jefferson’s of Winchester is pleased to announce that Miranda Griffin has been named Jefferson’s 2026 Winchester Teacher of the Year! Mrs. Griffin teaches kindergarten at Rock Creek Elementary School, and has been teaching for 13 years. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in special education to better support a more diverse learning environment.
Mrs. Griffin was chosen from a highly competitive pool of nominations submitted by students and community members. The contest, launched in honor of National Teachers’ Day—today, May 5—aims to recognize one of Winchester’s many deserving educators. Jefferson’s selected Mrs. Griffin as the Winchester Teacher of the Year for her energy and dedication to creating an inclusive environment for all her students.
“Mrs. Griffin’s nominators spoke of her infectious passion,” said Sean McCooey, President of Double Dip Franchise Group. “She’s famous for dressing for the occasion, to coordinate with her lessons. She’s been a bumblebee, a composition notebook, a leprechaun, and an alphabet tree, to name a few. Every child in Mrs. Griffin’s classroom feels loved and excited to learn. Mrs. Griffin embodies everything our communities value in their teachers and leaders, and we’re honored to recognize her for her dedication to the Winchester community.”
Griffin will receive a $500 gift card to Jefferson’s, and her achievement will be commemorated on the “Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year” plaque at the Winchester restaurant.
“Being a teacher has meant stepping into a role that extends beyond lesson plans and grades,” said Mrs. Griffin in a statement. “It’s about showing up with patience and curiosity, and witnessing growth in every small moment. Whether a shy student gains enough confidence to answer a question or a family trusts you to support their child’s unique needs, I find joy in every aspect of teaching. It is a daily commitment to create safe, inclusive spaces where diverse learners can thrive, feel seen, and believe in their potential.”
Last year was the launch of the Teacher of the Year program, with Jessica Mayes, teacher at Decherd Elementary School, selected as Winchester’s 2025 Teacher of the Year.
This year is the sophomore run for the Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year award, launched as a companion program to Jefferson’s Coach of the Year award, which runs in the fall. The teachers’ initiative is open to teachers working with students of any age, and candidates could be nominated by students, parents and guardians of students, school officials, or other community members.