GCPS Teacher of the Year 2024-25

  • The GCPS Teacher of the Year, Kaitlyn Bolyard, poses with administrators.

    Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) has named Ms. Kaitlyn Bolyard the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year. Ms. Bolyard is a Special Education teacher at Yough Glades Elementary. She has taught for 9 years and has been in her current position for 4 years. Ms. Bolyard received her Master’s Degree in Special Education from California University of Pennsylvania (2020) and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Frostburg State University (2014). 

    She coordinates special education services for her school and implements Specially Designed Instruction. She works to promote inclusion practices and increase acceptance of students with disabilities. Ms. Bolyard facilitates professional development focusing on inclusion practices and providing Specially Designed Instruction at the school and county levels. She is the head coach of the Yough Glades Unified Bocce team and a Lead Special Education Teacher for GCPS.

    Dr. Chelsie Manges, Director of Special Education, commends Ms. Bolyard, stating, “Ms. Bolyard is an exceptional teacher who consistently exceeds expectations to provide her students with the support they need to succeed. Her dedication to advocating for students with disabilities is unparalleled, and she tirelessly ensures they have access to the resources they need to thrive.” 

    Dr. Brenda McCartney added, "Ms. Bolyard is a shining example of the dedication and passion our teachers bring to their classrooms daily. Her commitment to her students and her profession is truly inspiring, and we are honored to have her represent GCPS as our Teacher of the Year."

    Ms. Bolyard will go on to compete for the Maryland State Teacher of the Year, which should be announced in October 2024. For information about all GCPS Teachers of the Year, please visit www.gcps.net/TOY.

    Pictured above (left to right) are Dr. Nicole Miller, Chief Academic Officer; Dr. Brenda McCartney, Interim Superintendent; Mrs. Annie Ross, Principal; Mrs. Dawna Ashby, Director of Elementary Education; Ms. Kaitlyn Bolyard, GCPS Teacher of the Year 2024-2025; Dr. Chelsie Manges, Director of Special Education; and Ms. Katie Landen, Assistant Principal.

    Maryland Teacher of the Year Program

GCPS Teacher of the Year 2023-24

  • GCPS Teacher of the Year 2023-24

    Image of Ali Schilpp, GCPS Teacher of the Year, posed with GCPS Administration.

    Mrs. Ali Schilpp, Media Specialist at Northern Garrett Middle School, has been selected as the 2023-2024 Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) Teacher of the Year. This prestigious award is a reflection of her incredible dedication and commitment to her students and the field of education.

    Mrs. Schilpp is a highly-qualified, National Board-Certified educator with an impressive educational background. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Theatre and Media Performance from Stevenson University and a Master's degree in Instructional Technology & School Library Media from Towson University. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to her students is evident in everything she does. She has been instrumental in implementing innovative teaching methods to enhance learning experiences. She has inspired her students to think creatively, solve problems, and work collaboratively.

    “Mrs. Schilpp is a shining example of excellence in education,” said Ms. Barbara Baker, GCPS Superintendent. “Her dedication to her students, her innovative teaching methods, and her commitment to lifelong learning make her a truly deserving recipient of the 2023-2024 GCPS Teacher of the Year award. Congratulations, Mrs. Schilpp!”

    In addition to her certifications, Mrs. Schilpp has received numerous recognitions. She was School Library Journal’s 2018 School Librarian of the Year, received the 2019 Betty Roemmelmeyer Advocate Award from the Children’s Literature Centre, and is a LEGO® Education Ambassador.

    Pictured above are Mr. David Yoder, Principal Northern Complex; Mrs. Ali Schilpp, GCPS Teacher of the Year; Dr. Nicole Miller, Chief Academic Officer; and Mr. Paul Edwards, Director of Secondary Education.

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