Five Educators Recognized as Finalists for Washington County Teacher of the Year

Washington County Public Schools (WCPS) and the Washington County Chamber of Commerce have announced five outstanding educators as finalists for the 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year award. These finalists were selected from a pool of over 100 nominees across the school district, representing a combined 80 years of teaching experience, with 70 of those years dedicated to WCPS. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. David Sovine, personally visited the classrooms of these finalists to present them with this significant recognition.

The finalists for this prestigious honor each bring a unique approach to education and a deep commitment to their students. Kaelii Boyer, a first-grade teacher at Clear Spring Elementary, focuses on fostering positive relationships to create a safe and supportive learning environment. Boyer’s nine years with WCPS have been marked by her integration of technology and emphasis on social-emotional learning to build student confidence and peer relationships. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Towson University and a Master’s degree in Educational Technology from Loyola University Maryland.

Ashley Doyle, an educator in the Academy of Health Professions at Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High School, has taught for seven years. Doyle believes that strong relationships enable students to realize their potential and explore future career paths. Her teaching methodology emphasizes real-world learning, aiming to transform student interests into purposeful career aspirations. Doyle earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Western Governor’s University.

Caitlin Keller, who teaches Connections at Boonsboro Middle School, has a total of 17 years in education, with seven of those spent at WCPS. Keller’s philosophy centers on empowering students by acknowledging and valuing their individual abilities, thereby encouraging their growth and success. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary/Special Education from Mount St. Mary’s University and a Master’s degree in Teaching and Leading for Equity from McDaniel College.

Robin Papa, a mathematics teacher at Clear Spring High, boasts an impressive 28 years of experience, all of which have been with WCPS. Papa views teachers as a consistent source of support in students’ lives, maintaining high expectations while prioritizing student well-being both inside and outside the classroom. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from Shippensburg University and a Master’s degree in Teaching from Frostburg University.

Rounding out the finalists is Angie Stouffer, a science teacher at Smithsburg High. Stouffer has dedicated 19 years to WCPS, assisting students in connecting their academic learning to future ambitions. She also instills the importance of service through her involvement with student leadership and volunteer programs. Stouffer holds both a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Secondary Education and a Master of Science degree for Curriculum and Instruction in Biology, both from Shippensburg University.

The individual selected as the 2026-2027 Washington County Teacher of the Year will succeed Marjorie Chapman, a Cosmetology teacher at Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High School, who was the 2025-2026 honoree. The announcement of the new Teacher of the Year will take place on April 15, 2026, at an event hosted by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce Foundation at the Fountain Head Country Club in Hagerstown. This Teacher of the Year program is a collaborative effort between WCPS and the Washington County Chamber of Commerce Foundation, highlighting a shared commitment to recognizing educational excellence within the community.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Washington County Public Schools

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