Yet, this was also the school system with the hardest set of interview questions!!  I remember one question distinctly.  “What would you rather be known for: winning Teacher of the Year, having the class who earns the best test scores in the district, or affecting the life of one student in a positive manner?”  I said that I would want to be known for the impact I had on children’s lives because if that ever stopped being my focus then I would stop being a teacher. 

Little did I know that ten years later I would be sitting at the Maryland State Teacher of the Year Gala, being recognized as Harford County’s Teacher of the Year.  I never sought out for this award.  I am not used to being in the limelight, and I am not the one who stands out in the crowd.  But I can say that this has been the most amazing year, one that far exceeds the very best that I could imagine this being. 

Being at the gala brought so many emotions to the forefront of my heart.  At the very center is the fact that I am surrounded by an incredible group of people.  As I looked around the gala, there were 5 tables reserved just for me.  My family, my friends, my coworkers, my school, our county leaders, and even my college all came out to support me.  As I walked down the aisle with Mrs. Canavan, these people so dear to my heart became the loudest people in the entire banquet room.  The cheering, clapping, and yes, even maracas became the talk of the morning the following day!  I was overwhelmed by the love of so many people I hold so near to my heart.  Within these 5 tables were the faces of those who pushed me to overcome every disability and obstacle I faced as a child that locked me in a world of my own, and gave me the confidence to grow wings and soar.  Within these 5 tables were the faces of those who created a bridge from my childhood into my career, preparing me with the tools and the wisdom to become the teacher I was meant to be.  Within these 5 tables were the faces of the best educators I have ever seen, and my inspiration to become the best I can be.  Within these 5 tables were the faces of leaders who believed in me, took a chance in me, and opened for me doors that I only dreamed of reaching.  Within these 5 tables, were the faces of those who have never stepped into my school building and yet have walked every bit of this journey with me.  There is so much love that I feel within these 5 tables. 

The gala itself was truly spectacular.  My sister-in-law said it best at the end of the evening… “This evening makes even me want to become a teacher!”  It was truly inspirational to take a glimpse into 24 classrooms and know that thousands of children are being affected for good because of the educators in that room.  I want to thank all the sponsors including McDonald’s, Northrup Grumman, Comcast, MD Automobile Dealers Association, and Maryland Public Television, for all the ways they have supported the 24 TOY’s this year.  I wish Sean McComb, the newly crowned Maryland Teacher of the Year, the very best.  A teacher at Patapsco High School and a leader of the AVID program, he possesses the passion, the knowledge, and the skill that not only leads students to greatness but teachers to greatness as well.  He represents the very best that Maryland is, and I know we will all benefit greatly from his voice being heard throughout the state.

Here are a few pictures from this magical evening!