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Mrs. Laura Witt has been named the Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) 2025-26 Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Witt is a second-grade teacher at Broad Ford Elementary. She began teaching with GCPS in 2008. Mrs. Witt received her Master’s Degree in Elementary Reading and Mathematics from Walden University (2015) and her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education from Frostburg State University (2006).
She has held various positions, including teaching all elementary grade levels (Pre-K through 5th), Title I Coordinator, and ELA Lead Teacher. She is currently employed as a second-grade teacher at Broad Ford Elementary. She is also the yearbook advisor, serves on the School Improvement Plan Committee, and volunteers as a volleyball coach at Southern High School.
“Mrs. Witt stands out for her outstanding dedication to student success, her innovative approach to teaching, and the meaningful impact she makes on both the school and the community,” said Mrs. Dawna Ashby, Director of Early Childhood and Elementary Education. “She consistently goes above and beyond to foster an engaging, supportive, and inclusive learning environment. Her passion for education and unwavering commitment to excellence continue to inspire students and colleagues alike.”
Dr. Brenda McCartney added, "Mrs. Laura Witt exemplifies the heart of what it means to be an educator in Garrett County. She is compassionate, innovative, engaging, and deeply committed to student success. We are proud to celebrate her outstanding contributions to her students, her school, and the community."
Mrs. Witt will go on to compete for the Maryland State Teacher of the Year, which should be announced in October. For information about all GCPS Teachers of the Year, please visit www.gcps.net/TOY.
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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.
