Five educators from Washington County Public Schools have been named finalists for the 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year award. The announcement follows classroom visits by Superintendent Dr. David Sovine, who surprised the nominees with the news. The finalists were selected from more than 100 nominations across the school system, recognizing teachers for their excellence in instruction and student impact.
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Collectively, the group of finalists brings 99 years of teaching experience, including 84 years within WCPS. The educators represent a range of grade levels and subject areas, including elementary education, science, cosmetology, and teacher preparation. One finalist will be chosen to succeed Brittany Collins, the 2024–2025 Teacher of the Year, at a ceremony on April 16, 2025, hosted by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce.
This year’s finalists include Breanna Calkins, a science teacher at North Hagerstown High with a decade of experience, who teaches advanced science courses including IB Biology and college-level Forensic Science. Marjorie Chapman, from Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High, is recognized for her work in expanding the school’s cosmetology program and mentoring fellow educators. Nicole Potter, also from Tech High, has 32 years of teaching experience and leads the Teacher Academy of Maryland program.
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Also selected are Kimberly Rishell, a fourth-grade teacher at Williamsport Elementary, known for leading the district’s math curriculum and guiding her students to top county math scores, and Jennifer Swam, a second-grade teacher at Maugansville Elementary, whose classroom serves as a model for early math instruction and curriculum implementation. Each finalist is also a National Board Certified Teacher, highlighting a shared commitment to professional excellence.
The Teacher of the Year program is a joint effort between WCPS and the Washington County Chamber of Commerce Foundation, aimed at honoring exceptional educators and promoting public education across the county.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from a press release issued by Washington County Public Schools and the Washington County Chamber of Commerce
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