Kimberly Oliver, a Kindergarten teacher at Broad Acres Elementary School, has been named one of four finalists for the 2005-2006 National Teacher of the Year--the first Maryland finalist since 1992. She was selected as Maryland Teacher of the Year in October 2005 and is among finalists from Florida, Kansas, and Washington for the national award.

Oliver is a graduate of Hampton University and holds a master's degree in elementary education from Wilmington College. She has taught at Broad Acres for six years. She is certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and has mentored 10 of her fellow teachers as they have pursued national certification. She serves on Maryland's Professional Standards Board and K-16 Leadership Council.

Kimberly Oliver has played a prominent role in implementing the school system's Early Success Performance Plan (ESPP) at Broad Acres Elementary School and helped to turn around declining test scores in this school with a highly diverse and economically challenged population.

“Kim is an outstanding teacher who inspires her students to learn at high levels,” said Dr. Jerry D. Weast, superintendent of schools. “I am very proud of what she and her colleagues at Broad Acres have been able to accomplish.”

The ESPP focuses on a standards-based curriculum, professional development for teachers, reduced class size, full-day Kindergarten, diagnostic assessments, extended learning opportunities beyond the normal school day, and parent involvement.

Final judging for the National Teacher of the Year will take place during the week of March 5, 2006, and President George Bush will recognize the winner during a ceremony scheduled for the week of April 26.