Seven Educators Named Finalists for 2026 Maryland Teacher of the Year

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and the Maryland State Board of Education have revealed the seven finalists who will compete for the prestigious 2026 Maryland Teacher of the Year award. These accomplished educators represent diverse school systems across the state and have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to student success and educational innovation. The announcement highlights the state’s commitment to celebrating and elevating the teaching profession.

The seven finalists, selected from a pool of teachers of the year from 24 local school systems, are Jacqueline Sanderson of Anne Arundel County Public Schools, Jevons Liu of Baltimore City Public Schools, ALonna Soward-Puryear of Frederick County Public Schools, Natalie Pretzello of Howard County Public School System, Marcie Mamas of Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, Emma Cohn Matthews of Wicomico County Public Schools, and Phillip Cropper of Worcester County Public Schools. Their selection followed a rigorous evaluation process by a panel comprised of leaders from various Maryland educational organizations, including principals, teachers, school boards, labor partners, and families. The criteria for selection emphasized student achievement, teaching philosophy, academic results, community involvement, and a deep understanding of educational issues.

The ultimate winner of the 2026 Maryland Teacher of the Year title will be announced at a special gala reception and dinner scheduled for Friday, September 26, at Martin’s Valley Mansion in Hunt Valley. This distinguished award recipient will not only receive state-level recognition but will also have the honor of representing Maryland in the National Teacher of the Year competition, with the national winner to be announced in April. The Maryland Teacher of the Year will also serve as a key speaker and advisor on statewide educational matters throughout the 2025-2026 school year, contributing valuable insights and leadership.

Maryland has a long-standing tradition of participating in the National Teacher of the Year Program, with over 30 years of involvement. This dedication has yielded significant national recognition, as three Maryland educators have been named National Teacher of the Year since 2006. The program and its associated events are made possible through the generous support of various sponsors, including McDonald’s Family Restaurants of Baltimore, Northrop Grumman Corporation, NTA Life, Educational Systems Federal Credit Union, Maryland Public Television, and Whiting-Turner Contracting Company.

Brief profiles of each finalist offer a glimpse into their exceptional careers and dedication: Jacqueline Sanderson, an English Language Development teacher at Belle Grove Elementary School, is recognized for leading district-wide curriculum initiatives and developing programs to support multilingual students and their families. Jevons Liu, a special education and mathematics teacher at the Academy for College and Career Exploration, serves as a mentor to educators statewide and is involved in staff wellness and academic oversight for student-athletes, also holding fellowships with the National Geographic Society and Lindblad Expeditions. ALonna Soward-Puryear, a fourth-grade teacher at Monocacy Elementary School, actively mentors new educators and contributes to various school improvement teams, while also coordinating summer programs for early learning and addressing learning loss. Natalie Pretzello, band director at Hammond Middle School, is a National Board Certified Teacher who also co-directs middle and elementary school gifted and talented bands, while leading professional development and mentoring new teachers. Marcie Mamas, a Business Teacher at Kent Island High School with 30 years of experience, is a past Maryland Business Teacher of the Year and has been instrumental in shaping school improvement efforts. Emma Cohn Matthews, an English teacher at Wicomico High School, chairs the Positive Behavior Interventions and Support program and English and World Language departments, while also advising student groups and mentoring pre-service teachers. Phillip Cropper, who leads the Culinary Arts program at Worcester Technical High School, is the 2025 James H. Maynard National Teacher of the Year and the 2024 SkillsUSA Maryland Advisor of the Year, with extensive experience as an Executive Chef and Pastry Chef.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland State Department of Education.

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