PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. (Aug. 30, 2016)—Donna Miller, Calvert County Public Schools Teacher of the Year, has been named one of seven finalists for the 2016-2017 Maryland Teacher of the Year.
Miller teaches science at Windy Hill Middle School. She received a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction in 1996 and Administrative I Certification in 2009 from McDaniel College, as well as her Bachelor's Degree in Biology from Houghton College in 1982. She won the SMECO Outstanding Science Teacher award and is a Maryland Master Teacher who engages students in science and engineering practices to build conceptual understanding. She infuses real-world science applications from her work as a NASA Goddard STEM coordinator and Northrop Grumman Teacher Fellow. Her passion for teaching transcends her classroom as she leads teachers in applying innovative and technology-based lessons that build student success in 21st century skills.
The finalists were selected by a panel of judges from key Maryland education organizations representing principals, teachers, school boards, teacher unions, parents and higher education. Finalists were measured against rigorous national criteria that include teaching philosophy and results, community involvement, knowledge of general education issues, and suggestions for professional and instructional improvement.
The 2016-2017 Maryland Teacher of the Year will be announced during a gala reception and dinner at Martin's West in Baltimore on October 7. The winner will receive cash awards, technology equipment, national travel opportunities, and a new car valued at more than $25,000, donated by the Maryland Automobile Dealers Association.