Stephanie Geddie, who obtained a master’s degree in educational studies in 2011, is one of seven finalists for 2015-2016 Maryland Teacher of the Year. The award will be announced on Friday, Oct. 9, during a gala reception and dinner at Martin’s West in Baltimore. The winner will receive cash awards, technology equipment, national travel opportunities and a new car.
“Maryland teachers are among the nation’s finest, and the work of these outstanding finalists represents the sparkling creativity and energy found in classrooms through the state,” said State Superintendent of Schools Lillian Lowery. “Maryland’s teachers offer our students world-class instruction, providing a passport to their future success.”
Geddie earned her School of Education degree after completing a dual certificate program in Administration & Supervision and Leadership in Family, School & Community Collaboration.
She is a kindergarten instructional team leader at the Laurel Woods Elementary School, where she facilitates the classroom-focused improvement process. She is also is co-founder of Building Blocks Network, a parent outreach program that increases access to school resources. It sponsored an African-American Read-In Day featuring authors and speakers who visited the school to meet with students.
Her other honors include the 2015 Washington Post’s Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher, Howard County Public Schools’ Special Education Advisory Committee award, and Baltimore Ravens’ 2014 Teacher of the Year nominee.
In her fifth year of teaching at Laurel Woods, Geddie was inspired to teach by her former teachers. “Great teachers have really inspired me. I want to make a difference like they did.”
The Maryland Teacher of the Year will be honored by President Obama at the White House next spring, and participate in national meetings and conferences on education. He or she will go on to compete for the National Teacher of the Year Award, which will be announced next April.
“Stephanie has built meaningful relationships with her students, their families and the local community, encouraging them to become active stakeholders in students’ success,” said Howard County Superintendent Renee Foose. “She is well-deserving of this honor and represents all of Howard County to the highest degree.”
