It is well known that Washington County Public schools proudly offer a “world class” education for their students, and on April 22, 2009, some of the best and brightest teachers that help make this so were honored at the annual Washington County Teacher of the Year ceremony hosted by the Fountainhead Country Club.

Almost fifty teachers from all over the county were nominated for the coveted award. “There are amazing, dedicated teachers in Washington County, and it’s an honor to be part of this process with the Chamber of Commerce,” says Carol Corwell-Martin, WCPS supervisor of professional development and Teacher of the Year committee member. “We look forward each year to celebrating all our great teachers in the county as part of this annual recognition.” The application process for nominees is arduous, requiring teachers to answer questions regarding their teaching philosophy and classroom characteristics. From the host of nominees, seven finalists were chosen: Sara Belin – 4^th grade at Bester Elementary School; Jaime Mason – Math at Clear Spring Middle School; Amber Madigan – Math at Smithsburg Middle School; Kevin Seburn – Science at Washington County Technical High School; David Warrenfeltz – Math at North Hagerstown High School; Tracey Wolbert – 1^st grade at Salem Avenue Elementary School; Amy Yingling – French at Springfield Middle School.

All of the nominees, their guests, as well school personnel came to support the teachers. After a high-class dinner Shanna Byrd, 2008-2009 Teacher of the Year, and Carol Corwell-Martin, 1999 Teacher of the Year, took turns calling the finalists to the stage. Each teacher was honored by comments quoted from their students as well as photos from inside their classrooms. Awaiting the announcement of the 2009-2010 Teacher of the Year became tense as a representative from Hagerstown Honda-Kia came to the podium with the keys to a brand new Honda to be leased to the winner free of charge for one year. Finally Washington County Public Schools Superintendent Betty Morgan came to the podium and announced Jaime Mason as Teacher of the Year for 2009-2010. The pre-algebra at Clear Spring Middle School said she was thrilled to win, but was not expecting the honor.

All photos and captions by Michael J. Maginnis