Awards Season Is Here!
It’s time — nominations are now open for teacher, supporting services and principal awards. For the 2025–2026 school year, awards have been added in some categories to allow for more winners!
The MCPS Teacher of the Year nominations have been expanded to recognize an exceptional educator at every school. Each school will nominate their own MCPS Teacher of the Year; three will be chosen as finalists. A winner will be selected from the final three; that educator will compete for Maryland Teacher of the Year honors. Details are:
The Montgomery County Public Schools Teacher of the Year Award: The MCPS Teacher of the Year Award honors a full-time prekindergarten through Grade 12 teacher who has a demonstrated record of high academic expectations for all students, engaging students of all backgrounds and abilities, contributing to a positive school culture, and connecting with the school community. Nominees must have a minimum of six years of teaching experience, including at least three in MCPS. Names must be submitted by Monday, Dec. 1. Completed applications are due Monday, Dec. 15.
Montgomery County Public Schools Rising Star Teacher Award: The MCPS Rising Star Teacher Award honors a full-time prekindergarten through Grade 12 teacher who is in their first, second or third year of teaching. This award winner is a teacher who demonstrates a passion for the success of all students, creatively engages students in learning and contributes to a strong, positive partnership among students, staff, parents and the community. Deadline: midnight on Friday, Dec. 12
The Supporting Services Employee of the Year Award 2026 is now open for nominations. Nominees must be active support professionals in a permanent position and have at least three years of service with MCPS. Completed nomination packets must be submitted electronically to memberservices@seiu500.org. A semifinalist will be selected from each of SEIU Local 500’s eight chapters. Deadline: midnight on Monday, Dec. 1
The Washington Post Teacher of the Year Award: This award recognizes a full-time teacher in prekindergarten through Grade 12 who instills in students a desire to learn and achieve. Each nominee must have a minimum of two years teaching experience, one of which must be in MCPS. This award celebrates educators who go the extra mile for their students and demonstrate creativity in providing quality instruction that substantively improves the way children learn in classrooms. Deadline: midnight on Friday, Dec. 12
The Washington Post Principal of the Year Award: This award recognizes principals who go beyond the day-to-day demands of their position to create an exceptional educational environment. Principals must have at least five years of experience, including at least three in MCPS. Deadline: midnight on Friday, Dec. 12
The Shirley J. Lowrie Thank You for Teaching Award: This award honors elementary school teachers, prekindergarten through Grade 5, who must work directly with students in the classroom on a daily basis, demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the subject matter, and effectively communicate that subject matter to students. The nominee should be a teacher who goes the extra mile to ensure that students receive the support they need to succeed. Deadline: midnight on Friday, Dec. 12
Mark Mann Excellence and Harmony Award: Established in 1991, this award honors MCPS principals who excel in promoting academic excellence, positive human relations and community outreach. This award honors a current principal in MCPS who has a minimum of two years of experience. Deadline: midnight on Friday, Dec. 12