Clear Spring High School Math Teacher Honored as 2026–27 Washington County Teacher of the Year

Robin Papa, a dedicated mathematics teacher at Clear Spring High School, has been named the 2026–2027 Washington County Teacher of the Year. The distinguished recognition was announced at the annual Teacher of the Year awards ceremony, hosted by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce at Fountain Head Country Club. Papa, an alumna of Clear Spring High School, has dedicated her entire 28-year teaching career to the institution and also serves as the head coach for the school’s track team.

The announcement highlights Papa’s exceptional commitment to her students, extending beyond the classroom to encompass their overall well-being. Washington County Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. David T. Sovine, acknowledged Papa’s skill as a mathematics educator and emphasized her unique dedication to supporting the “whole student.” This includes actively seeking to understand and address students’ needs related to mental health, the challenges of adolescence, and improving communication. Her continuous learning and dedication to serving every student at Clear Spring High School were specifically noted.

Papa’s teaching philosophy centers on maintaining high expectations for students while simultaneously providing robust support. She views her role as a constant for students navigating an increasingly complex world, where they face numerous challenges such as food insecurity, language barriers, and the rapid advancements of artificial intelligence. She believes that teaching is a profession driven by deep passion and often involves significant, unacknowledged effort, as educators carry their students’ hopes and struggles with them. Her overarching goal is to ensure that every child has the opportunity for a future characterized by choice and dignity. As Teacher of the Year, Papa intends to advocate for a profession that effectively balances high academic standards with profound personal connections.

As the recipient of the 2026–2027 Washington County Teacher of the Year award, Papa will receive $6,000 from Washington County Public Schools to enhance her classroom resources. Additionally, representatives from Hagerstown Honda and Kia presented her with a new vehicle to use during her tenure as Teacher of the Year. A prize package also includes a year of complimentary meals from Chick-fil-A of Hagerstown. Papa earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from Shippensburg University and a Master’s degree in Teaching from Frostburg University.

In addition to Papa, four other educators were recognized as finalists for the Teacher of the Year award. Each finalist received a $1,000 check from Washington County Public Schools for their classrooms and a gift basket from Chick-fil-A. The finalists include Kaelli Boyer, a first-grade teacher at Clear Spring Elementary; Ashley Doyle, a Health Professions Teacher at Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High; Caitlin Keller, a Connections Teacher at Boonsboro Middle; and Angie Stouffer, a Science Teacher at Smithsburg High.

The Washington County Teacher of the Year winner will now join a statewide cohort of Teachers of the Year from 23 other school districts. This group will participate in professional learning experiences, and Papa will be considered for the title of Maryland Teacher of the Year, with the announcement expected in the fall. The Teacher of the Year program is a collaborative effort between Washington County Public Schools and the Washington County Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

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

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