2026 Senior Teacher of the Year Celebration

May 8th, 2026

The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) 2026 Senior Teacher of the Year celebration was held April 27, 2026. Students from each HCPSS high school/center selected one teacher for this honor.

“There is no greater feeling that is tied to recognition than when that recognition comes from the students,” said Superintendent Barnes during opening remarks. “You’ve managed not only to convey your love of your content area but you’ve also managed to connect with your students relationally so they care as much about you as they do about what you are teaching them and that’s really the sweet spot.”

Meet the teachers who were celebrated at the ceremony:

Joe Press, Social Studies Teacher, Wilde Lake High School
“I need my students far more than they need me. After all, people learn things all the time but a teacher cannot teach without their students.”

Deb Shannon, Mathematics Teacher, River Hill High School
“We do what we do because it’s all about the meaningfulness and relationships – it was actually an English teacher who had an impact on me growing up, and now, the students every day at River Hill have an impact on me.”

Paul Lee, Science Teacher, Reservoir High School
“It’s kind of like a wave, or maybe a glimmer of light… small, tiny bits of energy can accumulate, build up, starts off small but then over time just builds up to something big and grand you know? The world becomes a better place because of people like you, because you’re the best version of yourself.”

Iris Tung, Mathematics Teacher, Oakland Mills High School
“I immigrated to the United States from Taiwan in 2013 when I was in high school. My U.S. History teacher saw my fear and instead of overlooking it, he helped me navigate school and life in the U.S. He inspired me to become an educator.”

Vann Prime, Social Studies Teacher, Mt. Hebron High School
“After many years at Mount Hebron, what I love most about teaching is still the daily privilege of helping students become sharper thinkers, stronger communicators, and more confident young adults. Economics and history both teach students to see beneath the surface of events and decisions, and I am grateful to work in a school where students are so willing to think deeply, work hard, and aim high.”

Caroline Rossbach, Mathematics Teacher, Marriotts Ridge High School
“The teenage years are very formative years and I just want to be the person who helps these students gently and smoothly get through these years and when they get on the other side they will remember that someone was there for them.”

Kevin Broadus, Physical Education Teacher, Long Reach High School
“I’m having so much fun at Long Reach, every day is different. I enjoy just walking around school saying hi to people and getting to know students outside of the classroom in the activities they participate in.”

Jon Hollander, Social Studies Teacher, Howard High School
“I like to reinforce to students that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. It’s so important to do what you like and don’t force yourself into a situation that doesn’t feel right.”

David Sobel, Music Teacher, Homewood Center–Bridges Program
“At Homewood, we do what teachers do best which is an act of service. We are always looking out for their best interest without any incentive.”

Amy Davis Hall, Student Engagement and Physical Education Teacher, Homewood Center–Gateway Program
“These kids are like part of me, a part of my life, they are so much more than students. Making sure that my kids are safe and learning life skills is my priority.”

Laura Osbourne, Mathematics Teacher, Hammond High School
“This senior class shows so much love, compassion and respect, and I got the honor of writing many of their recommendation letters and I ended them by writing ‘I hope my boys can grow up to be like you guys’ because there is something amazing about this entire class.”

Holly Norman, English Teacher, Guilford Park High School
“It’s easy to connect with students when you’re talking about stories, even if they hate every single book I assign because that’s an emotion, and there’s a reason behind it, so I like hearing the ‘why’ behind it and learning more about each student.”

Brian Bohlayer, Mathematics Teacher, Glenelg High School
“I can only hope that the work that I do inspires many more teachers across the County and beyond to go into this profession just as I was inspired by others.”

Timothy Watson, Science Teacher, Centennial High School
“As a physics teacher, I find that my class is often terrifying to students, but I do try my best to make students as comfortable as possible. While the course material is hard, I am here to help them do the hard thing.”

Dore’ Ann Karnegis, High School Team Teacher, Cedar Lane School
“My students have taught me compassion, patience, kindness. I am grateful for having my nearly 24 years at Cedar Lane, and I hope my leadership helps other teachers.”

Hina Naseem, Academy of Finance Teacher, Applications and Research Laboratory
“When I was in school, I was overlooked because teachers could not pronounce my name. And I got into this profession because I didn’t want any student to feel like I did and that’s why I shake my students hands every day because I want them to be seen and to tap into their potential.”

Anthony Detomo, Social Studies Teacher, Atholton High School
“To the seniors, keep in touch with your teachers. We do what we do to see you grow and thrive. We want to hear from you as you move on, and we will always be there to support you no matter what you need.”