LEONARDTOWN, Md. (March 18, 2011) - Ms. Michelle Hirtz, a kindergarten teacher at Lexington Park Elementary School, was recently named St. Mary's County Public Schools' recipient of The Washington Post 2011 Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award.
The Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award was established more than 24 years ago by The Washington Post Company Education Foundation to recognize teachers who exemplify excellence in the teaching profession and is named after Agnes Meyer, a staunch supporter and defender of public education, and the wife of Eugene Meyer, who purchased the paper in 1933.
"Ms. Hirtz understands the individual needs of students, encourages their talents, and fosters their self-esteem," wrote Lexington Park Elementary School Principal Susie Fowler in her letter of support for Ms. Hirtz. "She ensures that her curriculum is multicultural, so that all students can relate to it. She differentiates her instruction so that students with special needs, as well as students who are gifted, will meet success."
Ms. Hirtz, who earned her Master's degree in early childhood education from Towson University and her Bachelor's degree in elementary education from the University of Maryland, College Park, joined St. Mary's County Public Schools in 2004 in her current position. Prior to that, she served as a reading recovery teacher and first grade teacher in the Virginia Beach Public School System, and as a first grade teacher in the Charles County Public School System.
"Ms. Hirtz is an exceptional teacher and is very deserving of this recognition" said Dr. Michael J. Martirano, superintendent of schools. "She is very caring and nurturing, and fully understands the mission of the school system to educate all students with no excuses.
Ms. Hirtz and the other recipients, representing 19 local public school districts and one representing the area private schools, will be recognized in May at a ceremony hosted by The Washington Post.
Source: St. Mary's County Public Schools