Each year, the Excellence in Education Teacher of the Year award honors outstanding educators across Anne Arundel County. Read stories below from past Teacher of the Year nominees and find out what drives these incredible educators.
Learn more about the AACPS Teacher of the year process.
2024 Teacher of the Year Reflects on What Helped Them Become the Best Version of Themselves
“Every child deserves a champion- an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.”
2022 Teacher of the Year Reflects on the Year and Looks Forward to the Future
If you want happiness for a lifetime. Help someone in the next generation.
Empowering Self-Worth and Peer Mentoring: Meet the Tyler Heights Elementary School Second Grade Teacher Who is a Finalist for Teacher of the Year
The heart of teaching is our kids. The future of the world is in this classroom. What we do now is building moral human beings.
From Lab Coat to Superteacher: Meet the Magothy River Middle School Science Teacher Named Finalist for Teacher of the Year
The first thing would be to tell myself, You’ve Got This! Have fun and if you aren’t enjoying your lessons, neither are the students. Be creative and make changes. The kids like to know you are human, so if you make a mistake, it’s ok
Teaching Mindfulness and Wellness: Meet the Teacher of the Year Finalist from South Shore Elementary School
You have an opportunity to be a changemaker. Everyday is an adventure. You can create a positive experience for students. You, yes you, can make a change in the world.
Wellness is the Key: Annapolis High’s Teacher of the Year Finalist Shares Her Motivation
If you seek work of the heart, then be a teacher. It fuels your soul as you pour love out. It’s immeasurable the impact you have and the impact it has on you.
Empowering Students to Lead: Lindale Middle School’s Teacher of the Year Finalist shares her secrets
You can be the best advocate for kids who don’t have a voice and have dreams to be more. It’s a noble profession and students need your DNA to access and unlock what they are going to be.
Unleash Your Child’s Imagination: Meet the Independent Teacher of the Year Finalist Who Inspires Pre-schoolers at St. Paul’s Lutheran School
Remember that the kids think that you are awesome. I constantly think of how proud I am of my kids and that is rewarding. I’m unsure what other career you can do that will give you what teaching gives as you watch your kids learn and grow.
Helping Students Connecting the Dots: The Inspiring Journey of St. Mary’s High School Teacher, a Finalist for Independent Teacher of the Year
If you’re interested in the future and the well being of others, become a teacher. You’ll learn so much about yourself as well as enjoy seeing the fruits of your labor.
Innovation in the Classroom: Meet the Arundel High School Teacher who’s a Teacher of the Year Finalist!
In my time capsule I would include a microphone because there are so many stories that can be told just from this year.
Principal of the Year 22-23, Richard Rogers of Mills-Parole Elementary School Advocates for “Constant Reflection as the Key to Become Better Educator and Leader”
Stay at it! It is worth it and fulfilling. Kids need dedicated teachers from all backgrounds.
Determined to See Every Child’s Potential
"My goal for every student is that they become independent, confident, high-achieving students that see and reach their individual potential. I challenge myself daily to discover what is needed for each of my students to be successful and implement strategies to help them discover their abilities."--Doreen Fischetti, Crofton High School
Building a Lasting Community Within the Classroom
As a teacher, it is my job to ensure that all of my students come to school each day feeling safe and excited to learn. I strive to build a community within my classroom, as well as through the entire school.
Providing Unconditional Love in the Classroom
My teaching philosophy begins and ends with unconditional love.
The Value of a Teacher
I believe that every child has a story and it is my commitment to know and value every story.
Passion for Motivating Students
Nisa's passion for motivating students started in the 4th grade.
Encouraging Students to Explore
Stacy Kearns I am an AACPS: Teacher, Severn River Middle School | 2020 Teacher of the Year Semi-Finalist Adolescence is a challenging time for many students. Adolescence can also be a time of [...]
Celebrating Differences, Adapting to Change, and Finding Success
Welcome to Camp Kramer! We are a family that starts each day with hugs, high fives, and a bonfire (community circle).
Advocating for Students
One of the most fundamental roles of an educator is that of an advocate.
Teaching Student’s that Kindness Matters
I believe all students can learn within an environment where kindness matters and they feel safe to take risks.
Raising Teacher Expectations and Empathy
I believe that every student should be challenged through the use of differentiated instruction, high teacher expectations and empathy.
Building Supportive Relationships with Students
I believe building relationships with my students is the most crucial part of the job.
Providing Students the Unlimited Ability to Succeed
My philosophy of education is that all children have the unlimited ability to succeed.
Providing Life-Changing Moments for Students
Effective teaching starts with establishing positive personal relationships.
Keeping the Focus on the Mental Health of Our Students
"I have the opportunity to help kids who are struggling academically, socially, and emotionally. That is my privilege as a teacher."--Teresa Beilstein, 2019 AACPS Teacher of the Year
Embracing the Real World
"My teaching philosophy views every learner as both a psychological and social construct; because neglecting or subordinating one to the other can result to behaviors that can be detrimental to the teaching and learning environment." --Martin Noga, Annapolis High School
Being an Educator is an Honor
"I believe that it is equally important to help my students realize that they can be world changers; to teach the whole child." --Bonita Bradway, Tyler Heights Elementary
Realizing What You Are Capable of
"I believe that ALL students will be successful in my classroom. I want my students to know that my classroom is their community - a place where students feel safe to take academic risks, to accept that mistakes are an important part of learning and life, and to realize that they are capable of great successes." --Michelle Soumah, Arundel Middle School
The Art of Discovery
"I believe everyone is always an artist and I teach to provide every child the opportunity to explore a multitude of media in order to discover what type of artist they want to be."--Amy Degenhard, Jones Elementary School
Repeat, Re-visit, Reteach and Make it Relevant!
"I believe that my classroom is inviting, safe, and nurturing. Children feel secure and valued. Effective instruction that is joyful and stimulating occurs on a daily basis."--Eileen Foley, Corkran Middle School
Appreciating the Good in All Students
"My philosophy of teaching grows from my own love of learning and the value I place on the relationships formed within the learning community."-- Lyndsay Geddings, Folger McKinsey Elementary School
The Powerful Role of the Teacher
"I believe my primary role is looking at the end goal, assessing current understanding, and taking into account special abilities, interests, and challenges of the students." --Samantha Klenkel Wilkinson, Cape St. Claire Elementary School
Guiding Reluctant Wanderers
"I believe that all students can be and should be pushed, pushed to try their hardest, pushed to be deeper thinkers, pushed to take pride in what they produce." --Kristina Ladika, Arundel High School
Collecting Beautiful Moments
"A successful classroom community exists when a teacher takes time to build authentic relationships. In turn, students feel safe and are comfortable taking risks." --Sarah Serena, Waugh Chapel Elementary
Intricate Parts of Our Education Adventure
"My belief is that all students can learn if provided with tools that enhance the skills that we are trying to build and expand the foundation that they have already established. Utilizing a variety of methods of instruction as well as different unique tools such as Makerspace and presentation materials allows me as a teacher to reach more learners and help them grow."--Melissa Connelly
Heroes Take Risks
"I believe our children should learn to lead a life that will leave a positive legacy. Teachers have an AMAZING influence on students and should use that power wisely." --Erin Perkins, Quarterfield Elementary School
Have Only Positive Expectations
"I refer to my teaching philosophy as "Soul Food" because of having the opportunity to beautifully educate my students in mind, body and soul."--Carla Matthews, Center of Applied Technology South
It’s Not About the Standards–Its About the People
"I believe that all students need to feel cared for before learning can take place. Understanding where students are emotionally and intellectually allows me to meet them on a level playing field."--Tully Fenner, Northeast High School
Establishing Trusting Relationships
"My philosophy of teaching is very simple. EVERY student is capable of learning."--Danyelle Edwards, Seven Oaks Elementary School
Presence Sets the Tone
"My philosophy of teaching is simple: make connections and strive to be your best self. As teachers, we shoulder great responsibility regarding the impact we have on our students' lives."--Laura Currey, Central Elementary
Creating Lifelong Learners and Community Members
"I believe that providing my students with an engaging, rigorous, and hands-on lesson, inspires their learning. These lessons allow them to retain the concepts taught and make real-world connections."--April Crovo, Mayo Elementary
Praise From All Corners of the Community
"My teaching philosophy is simple. Make it fun, make it collaborative and make it as hands-on as possible all the while being kind to one another."--Angela Carbone, Severna Park Middle
Reflect–Renew–Re-Engage
"For teachers, summer is always a time we should expect to reflect, renew and prepare to rea engage through each of our roles in the educational system."--Kim Mason, Windsor Farm Elementary
Connections that Matter
"As teachers, we have the unique responsibility of being the first domino in this epic domino rally setup."--Heather Carnaghan, Monarch Global Academy
The Power of Relationships
"I believe that great teaching begins with forming positive, meaningful relationships with students."--Josh Carroll, SRHS
Creating Meaningful Experiences through German
"The 21st century demands on students are rigorous, but my classroom is a safe area for students to take risks and to discover that mistakes are simply opportunities for learning."--Katrina Griffin, NCHS
Opening the Door for Deaf Culture in Our Schools
“AACPS opened the door and pursued ASL as a language to be taught in it’s schools. This willingness gives students the opportunity to broaden their language horizons and become productive/contributing members of society.”--Dana Dobbs, Broadneck High School
Empowering a Community of Learners
"Students will remember science because of how I made them feel and the excitement they felt as they learned some really cool science."--Kathleen Soares, Corkran Middle School Teacher
Inspired to Achieve Greatness
"I’ve risen above thinking I achieved greatness on my own; and I’ve embraced the responsibility to ignite and stoke in my students the fire that was started inside of me." --Iris Crankfield, SRHS
My students’ home away from home
"Classroom culture and environment directly impacts student success. My philosophy of teaching is built around this statement and begins by creating a home away from home for my students."--Marlene Kramer, Southern High School
Instruction Is The Essence Of Education
Years ago I read a quote that forever resonated in my soul, “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires. “My hope is that I inspire!
My Teaching Philosophy
"My teaching philosophy is rooted within my goal of instilling a deep love of learning in my students while challenging them to surpass their personal expectations. I believe that each child is a unique individual with their own diverse backgrounds, learning styles, and specific interests and it is my duty to rise to the occasion and take them to their next level of learning."--Lori-Ann Blazano
Improving classrooms through teamwork and personal connections.
Inspiring children to learn is a gift I feel humbled and grateful to share.
The best lessons start with a question: “What if?”
"There is no doubt in my mind that becoming a teacher is a calling, not a job. I have never regretted becoming a teacher."- Christina Houstian
My Journey with AACPS
“My journey with AACPS began over 25 years ago, as a young child who was embarking on his first days of Kindergarten.”--Timothy Smith, Folger McKinsey Elementary
A Legacy of Teachers
“The women in my family have given over 100 year of teachings to AACPS.”--Elizabeth Parker, NHS
Beyond the Teaching Standards
"A teacher never stops learning because our students are always changing."--Charlene Beyerlein, Jones Elementary
Paying Teaching Forward
"I hope that one day, my students will remember me as fondly as I remember the teachers who had a positive impact on my life."--Jill Weigelt, Arundel Middle
Why I Love Teaching
"Throughout the years I have met some of the most endearing children, interesting families, knowledgeable experts and compassionate professionals of my life."--Ronnie Barill, Van Bokkelen Elementary
Reflecting on my Honorable Profession
“I have come to realize that my philosophy of teaching can not be summarized into one word or phrase. It is a belief, a passion, and a responsibility.”—Nicole Hughes, Windsor Farm Elementary
Child-Centered Learning
“When student diversity is accounted for, all students will succeed.”—Debra Biggs, Pasadena Elementary, 2017 Teacher of the Year Honoree
Inspired to Be My Best
“My students and colleagues inspire me to be the best that I can be. I endeavor to do the same for them.”—Dawn Conway, Hillsmere Elementary
The Key to a Successful Year
"What worked in the classroom today, may not work tomorrow. Therefore, I am continuously seeking new ideas."--Alane Connolly, Shady Side Elementary
What a Perfect Job
"I love the promise that each new school year brings. I love the smell of a fresh box of crayons. I love seeing the smile on a child’s face when they feel good about themselves."--Josalyn Brown, Crofton Woods Teacher
Helping Students Develop a Love of Learning
"My teaching approach encourages creativity, cultivates independence, and develops an intrinsic sense of wonder [in my students] about themselves, their community and the world around us."--Sharon Mattoon, Solley Elementary Teacher
“You’re Our Biggest Fan”
" I remember my first grade teacher finding ways to communicate with me, a shy, intimated girl who spoke no English...It is important to me to teach the same way I’ve been taught."--Sunny Deitrick, ELA Teacher, OMHS
Forming Relationships Before Day One
"It is just as important to have children thrive emotionally as it is for them to achieve academically."--Angela Holmes, Oak Hill Elementary School
Passionate for Learning
"It is important for students to know that I am invested in them as a person with diverse interests and not just in the classroom."--Bethany Siwajek, Marley Middle School Teacher
My Teaching Philosophy
"I believe there are outstanding teachers because they are in the line of work for the right reasons."--Kristen Brice, RHL Elementary Teacher
Teaching Like a Doctor
"I must understand my students, identify concerns, diagnose the areas of difficulty and problem solve for solutions."--Lisa Taltavull, Crofton Middle School Special Education Teacher
Reaching Towards Individualized Growth
"Teaching is part of who I am, and thank goodness there is still much to learn."--Tonia Haislip, Bates Middle School Teacher
A Shift in Classroom Dynamic
"I would not be a teacher without them, so the classroom is just as much theirs as it is mine."--Margaret Graham, CBMS Teacher
My Journey to Becoming a Mathematics Resource Teacher
"In 9th grade I met an Algebra teacher who changed my life goals. She would give up her planning time to sit with me and explain the 'why' of Algebra. This one teacher gave me the hope that I could be an effective Math teacher just like her."--Lori Berry, Woodside Elementary School Math Resource Teacher
Uncovering the Talents in Every Child
"I’ve learned that to truly get to know a child I must exude behavior that is both collaborative and inclusive with not only the student, but with all key stakeholders in each child’s life."--Stacey Coppock, Folger McKinsey Teacher
Connecting With My Students to Build Better Relationships
"The more I learn, the better able I am to provide engaging lessons that support them in growing as learners and rise to their fullest potential."--Christina McCall, Deale ES
“Be the beacon that guides students”
"Receiving an education should inspire and encourage students to strive to be productive members of a community, great citizens, and meaningful contributors of society."--Tori Peddicord, Southern Middle School
Being the Constant for My Students
"It was and still is my mission that every student can exceed everyone's expectations given the appropriate environment and support so that they can become successful contributing members of society."--Tamara Saxon, MM@JAA Teacher
Creating an Engaging Environment for All Students
"Classrooms are not quiet. They should be filled with conversation and movement."--Amy Shinn, Central ES Teacher
Whatever it takes to help my students succeed in math
"If I can give them at least one year where they feel successful in math, then that will carry throughout high school."--Laura Casciato, Central Middle School
Championing the Whole Child
"Building relationships with my students and their families is at the core of my instructional success. I need to reach the whole child for my students to reach their fullest potential."--Kim Travers, MHES
Teaching with Love
"My mother was not an educator, however, she was my first teacher. She disciplined with love, and I try to do the same in my classroom."--Linda Ancin, Freetown Elementary
More than a Job: Teaching is a Passion
"My philosophy for teaching is very simple. Everything I do, every interaction that I have with my students, must serve the students to educate and make them feel empowered."--Stacey Scofield, Mills-Parole Elementary School Librarian
Four Elements that Drive My Classroom
"My experience has led me to hold four elements sacred in my classroom...high expectations, engaging & differentiated instruction, parent involvement, and a culture of student dignity & value."--Sally Paz y Miño Wilson, THES Teacher
Balancing Development & Knowledge in the Music Classroom
"Talent is only as developed as our mastery of skills allow. I have found that doing alone is not always enough--PRACTICE MAKES PERMANENT, NOT NECESSARILY PERFECT."--Robert Stojakovich, MRMS Teacher
Building the Foundation of Learning Through Relationships
"I believe that building relationships with students and staff is the glue that holds all the essential components of teaching and learning together."--Nancy Hack-Behringer, Mayo Elementary Teacher
My Journey from Culinary Student to Culinary Teacher
"Of course, I want my students to learn the culinary knowledge and skills...Most importantly though...I want them to value the importance of professional growth, collaboration, and teamwork in all industries."--Pam Klink, CAT-North Teacher
Teaching Chose Me
"When I found the AVID program, I knew unequivocally that AACPS had been the right choice for me."--Alexis Pogonowski, AVID Teacher Specialist
Mr. Collins Sparked My Passion for Teaching
"As I look back on why I am the teacher I am today, I think of one man who truly was an inspiration to all who walked through the doors of Chesapeake High School." --Jennie Merrill, SPES
