Rush Named Barbour County Teacher Of The Year

By Marija Ilic

Danielle Rush, a dedicated third and fourth-grade special education teacher at Belington Elementary School, has been named the 2025 Barbour County Teacher of the Year. This prestigious recognition also coincides with her being honored as the 2025 Belington Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Rush, who began her teaching career 16 years ago, has made significant contributions to the education sector in Barbour County. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education (2005) and a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education (2012) from Alderson-Broaddus College. Additionally, she has earned an autism teaching certificate from West Virginia Wesleyan College, furthering her expertise in special education.

Throughout her career, Rush has taught at various schools, including five years at Philip Barbour High School and three years at Kasson Elementary Middle School. Currently, she is in her eighth year at Belington Elementary, where she also completed her student teaching in 2005.

"I love seeing my students succeed in class and planning field trips to extend their learning beyond the classroom," Rush shared, highlighting her passion for education.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Danielle Rush lives in White Oak with her husband, Chad, where they manage Auvil Farms with their family. Her parents, Roger and Macel Auvil, are also a significant part of her support system. In her free time, Rush enjoys attending church, spending quality time with family and friends, hiking, picnicking, and engaging in sports.