Rockingham County Public Schools educators have been recognized for their creativity, innovation, and dedication to bringing learning to life, earning top honors in the Virginia Council on Economic Education’s statewide competition for excellence in teaching economics.
Kim Dove, a Social Studies teacher at Wilbur S. Pence Middle School, earned the top prize statewide for her innovative lesson “The Ballad of Buyers and Sellers: An AI Serenade.”
In this creative project, Dove’s students learned how supply and demand influence markets and prices, and then applied their understanding by using artificial intelligence tools to compose songs explaining how buyers and sellers interact. Her approach blended economics, music, and technology in a way that captivated students and encouraged responsible use of AI in the classroom.
“Kim’s project is a great example of introducing artificial intelligence into the classroom and demonstrating how to use this new technology responsibly while maintaining an engaging and creative lesson that will stick with students for years to come,” said John Kruggel, Director of the JMU Center for Economic Education.
Wilbur Pence Principal Teresa Shank expressed her pride in Dove’s achievement:
“Kim’s innovative spirit and passion for teaching make learning exciting and meaningful for her students. She continuously finds new ways to connect classroom lessons with real-world applications. We’re so proud of her and thrilled to celebrate this well-deserved honor.”
Dove will receive a $1,000 cash prize during a ceremony at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond on December 5, honoring her as one of Virginia’s most innovative and inspiring educators in economic education.
Joining Dove in representing Rockingham County with distinction, Steve Halteman, a 2nd-grade teacher at John C. Myers Elementary School, earned second place statewide for his project “Learning Economics One Scoop at a Time.”
Through this hands-on lesson, Halteman’s students explored foundational economic concepts such as goods and services, producers and consumers, and human, natural, and capital resources, all through the process of creating and selling their own trail mix. The project not only reinforced essential economic ideas but also strengthened students’ math and collaboration skills in a fun and memorable way.
“Steve’s project is an excellent example of integrating economics into core subjects and using economics for a schoolwide initiative that can help the community,” noted Lauren Shifflett, Associate Director of the JMU Center for Economic Education.
John C. Myers Principal Liza Coffman praised Halteman’s impact on students:
“Our second graders are lucky to have such a dedicated and inspiring teacher to bring learning to life! We’re so happy to celebrate Mr. Halteman!”
Both Dove and Halteman’s projects began as part of the local competition sponsored by Your Economic Success (YES), the Harrisonburg Rotary Club, and the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce, before advancing to the state level.
Their achievements highlight the strength and creativity of Rockingham County educators, teachers who go above and beyond to make learning meaningful, engaging, and lasting.
Rockingham County Public Schools is proud to celebrate Kim Dove and Steve Halteman, shining examples of the passion and excellence that define our district’s classrooms every day.
