MSDE-2024-2025-AnnualReport-FA-SPRD - Flipbook - Page 30
Maryland Teacher of the Year
Kat Locke-Jones, a seventh-grade English language arts teacher at
Hampstead Hill Academy, was selected as the 2025 Maryland Teacher
of the Year.
Locke-Jones was selected among seven 昀椀nalists for the award on the basis
of student achievement, teaching philosophy, community involvement, and
knowledge of education issues.
“I chose teaching because I believe giving students the chance to
write their stories has the power to change lives. Every student
brings their own story into the classroom, and it’s a privilege to
help them 昀椀nd their voice. But most importantly, I stay teaching
after all these years because I see the light in my students — their
resilience, their curiosity, their courage. They inspire me to keep
showing up, creating brave spaces where they feel seen, valued,
and empowered to write the next chapter of their lives.”
KAT LOCKE-JONES
2025 Maryland Teacher of the Year
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Celebrating Excellence
