Six MCPS teachers have been nominated for national awards honoring first-year teachers for their excellence in providing an outstanding instructional program.
The local teachers will compete with nominees statewide for a national First Class Teacher Award, sponsored by the Student Loan Marketing Association (Sallie Mae) and administered by the American Association of School Administrators. Up to 53 teachers nationally -- one from each state and U.S. extra-state jurisdiction -- will receive an award.
The teachers were selected for their exceptional instructional skills and their positive interaction with students, staff, parents and the community.
The nomination packets will be reviewed by professors from the higher education community, and winners will be announced in September.
The MCPS nominees are:
Shella N. Burch, sixth grade world studies teacher, Francis Scott Key Middle School
Laura Garms, first grade teacher, Washington Grove Elementary School
Tobias W. Gelston, eighth grade science teacher, Roberto Clemente Middle School
Carrie Greenlea, fourth grade teacher, Ashburton Elementary School
Mary F. Veltri, family and consumer sciences teacher, Thomas W. Pyle Middle School
David D. Zaleski, honors physics, engineering science and matter and energy teacher, Paint Branch High School. 