Heather Barbour, a physical education teacher at Columbia and Twin Oak Elementary Schools, has been named the Ohio Association for Health Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (OAHPERD) Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year. Barbour, originally from Pennsylvania, came to Mount Vernon after meeting her husband at Kent State University.
Superintendent William Seder Jr. commented on the recognition: “We are incredibly proud of Mrs. Barbour and the recognition she has earned. Her passion, leadership, and commitment reflect the excellence of our physical education staff across Mount Vernon City Schools.”
Barbour has taught elementary physical education for 15 years, with five years spent in Mount Vernon. She has received several honors throughout her career including OAHPERD's Memorial Scholarship and Young Professional of the Year Award, as well as local awards such as the City of Mount Vernon’s Volunteer of the Year Award and MVNU’s Mentor Teacher of the Year Award.
A fourth-generation PE teacher, Barbour focuses on helping students develop confidence and healthy habits while fostering a sense of belonging. She teaches kindergarten through fifth grade and also coaches students outside regular school hours to strengthen community ties.
Columbia Elementary Principal Andrew Thompson said: “Mrs. Barbour has an extraordinary rapport with children, building positive relationships that foster respect, inclusion, and belonging. Her students feel seen, supported, and motivated to be their best selves—physically, emotionally, and socially.”
Barbour’s efforts have contributed to expanding physical education programs in Mount Vernon. She was instrumental in starting the All Kids Bike program by partnering with United Way to teach young students how to ride bicycles. She also worked with local organizations to create a mobile Safety Town initiative aimed at teaching bike safety across all elementary schools.
Twin Oak Principal Adam Mowery noted: “Mrs. Barbour works to bring new and innovative approaches to our students and partners with a variety of organizations to ensure her programs are meaningful and relevant. She has bridged the gap between school and community in support of student learning and well-being.”
Superintendent Seder added that this recognition highlights not only Barbour's achievements but also those of all district educators: “Our students benefit every day from educators who go above and beyond, and Heather exemplifies the very best of who we are.”
