Shirley J. Lowrie "Thank You for Teaching" Award

2026 Winners

Two elementary school teachers were honored with the Shirley J. Lowrie “Thank You for Teaching” Awards this year — Charles Silberman, P.E. teacher at Rolling Terrace Elementary School, and Julee Lipsman, a second grade teacher at Great Seneca Creek Elementary School.

Charles Silberman

Charles Silberman is recognized for his equity-driven instruction that creates safe, engaging learning environments where all students can participate, thrive and grow. He supports students’ physical, social and emotional well-being while fostering confidence, leadership and lifelong wellness habits. He has gone the extra mile to remove barriers for students by securing more than $25,000 in grants and partnerships to expand equitable access to physical education, leadership and enrichment opportunities.

Silberman is known for creating a classroom environment where students feel safe, respected and empowered to learn. He meets each child where they are, using thoughtful instruction and encouragement to build academic skills and confidence.

He co-authored the MCPS PreK–5 physical education curriculum and implemented it in instruction, making sure it aligned to state and national standards. He also pioneered the integration of Emerging Multilingual Learner supports in P.E. by creating and implementing language acquisition packets for all instructional units and training teachers countywide.

He also has a strong commitment to community partnerships and student opportunity. Through collaborations with organizations such as the Washington Capitals Youth Hockey Program, Junior Tennis Championship Center and local agencies, he connects students with real-world experiences.

Julee Lipsman

After more than a decade as a university foodservice manager, Julee Lipsman entered the education field through volunteering and substituting. She steadily moved into paraeducator and special education position, eventually earning certification in general and special ed. She has been at Seneca Creek for nearly 20 years.

Lipsman was a paraeducator and teacher in the school’s Social Emotional Special Education Services (SESES) program, and a special education teacher in the Home School Model program. These experiences shaped her teaching style, helping her to create a learning environment where all students can succeed.

Colleagues say she pours love, creativity and intention into every corner of her second grade classroom. She believes that all students deserve equitable, joyful and meaningful learning experiences. She has built a long-standing reputation for professional excellence, staying current on research-based best practices and continually seeking out professional development. Her deep roots within the school are evidenced by her extensive tenure, suggesting a profound commitment to the growth and development of her students over multiple generations. Coworkers and parents say she leads with heart, humility and purpose; her presence changes the trajectory of her students’ lives.

Silberman and Lipsman each won a $2,500 prize for winning. The annual “Thank You for Teaching” award is made possible through the Shirley J. Lowrie Memorial Fund, established at the Greater Washington Community Foundation.