ROANOKE, Va. – A Roanoke teacher received an unexpected surprise from the Virginia Lottery Monday.  Â
Jean Hitchins, a special education teacher at Fishburn Park Elementary School, was named a Virginia Lottery Super Teacher.
The annual award is given to eight educators statewide and nominations are judged by a panel of teachers and community leaders.
Hitchins said she had no idea about the surprise award.
"It's just the love for the children and the hope that I am making a difference in their lives as they strive towards independence," said Hitchins.
Hitchins received a $2,000 prize and an additional $2,000 in classroom credit from The Supply Room Companies.