Talbot County Public Schools (TCPS) honors teachers and support staff through the annual Teacher of the Year and Support Staff of the Year Program. The program recognizes outstanding educators who implement innovative ideas, focus positive attention on education, and demonstrate superior commitment to students and the community.
Any member of the community may nominate teachers or support staff for these prestigious awards. The nomination period runs from early January through early February. A committee that includes former Talbot Teachers of the Year and TCPS Administrators reviews the resumes of the nominees who choose to formally apply, and selects the Teacher of the Year Finalists. Finalists prepare packets that highlight their work in their school and community. These packets are reviewed by the committee, and the Talbot Teacher of the Year is announced in April.
At the same time, a separate committee reviews the Support Staff of the Year nominations and resumes and selects the finalists. This winner is also announced in April. Three finalists have been selected from the nominations for Teacher of the Year and three were selected for Support Staff of the Year. TCPS is pleased to recognize these outstanding educators.
Teacher of the Year Finalists:
Lutisia (Tish) Blessing – Pre-Kindergarten Teacher, White Marsh Elementary
Marissa Carter –3rd Grade Mathematics Teacher, St. Michaels Elementary
Jeremy Hillyard – Easton High School, Spanish and ESOL Mathematics Teacher, Grade 9-12
Support Staff of the Year Finalists:
Regina Coleman – Easton Middle School Security
Chanae Neal – Easton Elementary School, Instructional Assistant – Special Education
Rosario Steele – Easton High School, Instructional Assistant – ESOL
“I am very proud of the exemplary commitment, enthusiasm, and varied professional experiences represented by this outstanding group of finalists!” said Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, Superintendent. “I would like to thank everyone who nominated members of our staff for this honor, and I congratulate all of the nominees and finalists!”
The 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year and Support Staff of the Year winners will be announced at the Teacher of the Year and Support Staff of the Year gala, Talbot Stars, which will be held on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at The Elks Lodge in Easton.
