Bill Bell is new West Virginia History Teacher of the Year.

William “Bill” Bell of Paden City has been selected as the 2025 West Virginia History Teacher of the Year.

Bell, who taught Social Studies at Paden City high school in 2025 for six years and is now a 5th grade teacher at New Martinsville school, was selected by a panel of teachers, administrators, and scholars from the state for his achievements in American history education.

As the 2025 West Virginia History Teacher of the Year, Bell will receive a $1,000 award; a Certificate of Recognition; an archive of books and historical resources; and recognition at a ceremony to be held in the state.

He is now one of fifty-three finalists for the $10,000 National History Teacher of the Year award.

Bell is currently serving out the remainder of the term of David Kelly in the West Virginia House of Delegates following Kelly’s appointment as Commissioner of the WV Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Bell plans to seek election to the House position in the 2026 election.