2025-2026 Allegany County Teacher of the Year Ceremony Transcript
There is a 2 minute and 25 second countdown before the video begins playing.
Opening Remarks - Jason Huber
Good evening. Welcome to the 2025-2026 Allegany County Teacher of the Year ceremony. My name is Jason Huber, and in just a short time I will announce the next Allegany County Teacher of the Year.
We usually begin our ceremony with some words from our superintendent, but before we do that, I'd like to take a moment to wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his dedication to the Allegany County Public School students, faculty, staff, and community over the years and his support of the Teacher of the Year program.
It was with Mr. Blank's support that we were able to continue the Allegany County Teacher of the Year program through the COVID-19 pandemic by moving our program from an in-person event to a virtual event. Having a virtual event has allowed us to reach a larger audience and has proven to be quite popular.
So the Teacher of the Year committee would like to thank you, Mr. Blank, for your support of this program, and we wish you well in your retirement.
Welcome to tonight's Teacher of the Year event. It is a great honor to recognize these outstanding individuals. This event allows us to celebrate all the finalists and express our sincere thanks to our educators. This exhibits the dedication you have shown every step of the way. You have raised the bar and set the standard for excellence.
As one reflects on our own educational experience, you remember teachers—not methods and techniques. The teacher is the heart of the educational system. It is truly admirable to teach and help shape the lives of our students. They are encouraged by teachers who create a comfortable environment that allows them to feel safe and grow as a student. Instilling wisdom and being a positive influence to all students makes an exceptional mentor. Combining confidence with determination helps students to face the everyday challenges.
Any great achievement is preceded by many difficulties and many lessons. You have worked hard to get there, and it is great to see your efforts recognized. On behalf of the Board of Education and all employees, we thank you for your unwavering commitment to the students of Allegany County.
Sponsor Recognition
We need to take some time tonight to thank our sponsors:
- Allegany College of Maryland - Mr. David Jones
- Allegany County Board of Education - Mrs. Crystal Bender
- Allegany County Chamber of Commerce - Autumn Becker
- Allegany County Education Association - Kim Sloan
- LaVale Chick-fil-A - Mr. Bill Bowser
- 1st Federal Credit Union - Stephanie Boyd
- Frostburg State University - Dr. Boyce Williams
- Allegany High School
- Allegany Morning Live Crew and Mr. Brian White for the use of their studio
- Ryan and Katie Brenaman
- G&G Studios - Lucas Knotts
Finally, I want to recognize a lifetime sponsor of the Teacher of the Year event: Mrs. Sandhaar of the Sandhaar Foundation.
Recognition of Last Year's Finalists
One more time, let's recognize and honor last year's finalists for the Allegany County Teacher of the Year program:
- Jackie Bauer - 8th Grade History, Braddock Middle
- Tina Kimmel - 3rd Grade Teacher, Flintstone Elementary
- Matt Kleene - 7th Grade Science, Mount Savage Middle
- Ann Stark - Science Teacher, Allegany High School
- Jody Sweeney - Pre-Kindergarten Teacher, Cresaptown Elementary
Address from Last Year's Teacher of the Year - Mr. Dave Buskirk
Good evening. My name is David Buskirk, and I'm currently representing our county as the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year.
I would like to begin tonight by thanking everyone for making this such an amazing experience for me. Thank you so much to Mrs. Jenny Ramsey, our Teacher of the Year coordinator; to Mr. Blank and the Board of Education members; and all businesses and community leaders who provide support to the Allegany County Public Schools Teacher of the Year program.
I would like to express my gratitude to my students, my colleagues at Belle Elementary, and my school administrators who supported me throughout this journey. Finally, I would like to thank my family—my wife Sheena and our two children, Elsie and Henry—for the love, encouragement, and support that you gave to me to make all of this possible.
Message to the Finalists
I would like to congratulate all of the Teacher of the Year finalists. The work, effort, and love you've put into being the educator that you are today has led you to this moment. You are so deserving to be in the spotlight and more. Regardless of who is crowned as our next Teacher of the Year, you've also gone above and beyond to develop your professional portfolio and have gone through interviews to lead up to tonight's ceremony.
Our school system is extremely fortunate to have you working in our classrooms, always willing to go above and beyond and to do what is right for the children in your care. Please take some time tonight to reflect on your career and what you've learned along the way, and take time to honor the people in your life that have influenced you.
Reflections on the Year
Last year when I was announced as the next Teacher of the Year, I was shocked, humbled, and a bit nervous about the year ahead. When talking to my predecessor, Dr. Joe Thompson, he shared with me a bit about the journey that awaited me. I knew I would be out of the classroom a good bit, traveling to events across the state and speaking on behalf of all of the educators of our entire school system.
I began to have a feeling of impostor syndrome. Was I really the right person for this? Am I really deserving of this? However, once I met the Maryland State Teacher of the Year cohort, my nerves quickly faded away. We were brought together by chance, but we quickly felt like a family. All of us shared the feelings of impostor syndrome like I described.
At every event we joined with each other, we would ask about our families, events that we have going on personally in our lives. We shared in the trials and tribulations of our classrooms and the commonalities that we all have. We spent the year together going to events at the Maryland State Department of Education, crabbing in the Chesapeake Bay, walking through the mud on Smith Island, eating lots of Maryland state cake, touring the state capital in Annapolis, learning about STEM careers at Northrop Grumman, and exploring the White House in Washington, DC. We've truly become a family to each other, and this experience has led me to develop relationships and connections amongst every county in our beautiful state.
Advice to the Next Teacher of the Year
My advice to our next Teacher of the Year is just to make sure you immerse yourself in every opportunity that you're given this upcoming school year. It will be extremely busy, but most of all, it will be a beyond rewarding experience for you. Please take the time to get to know your cohort, learn from them, learn from every experience that you go on, and then bring this knowledge back to your classroom to make you an even better educator and human being.
A quote that I wrote in my Teacher of the Year application last year is from the great Mr. Fred Rogers: "Anyone who does anything to help a child in his life is a hero to me."
To all of the finalists and educators in Allegany County Public Schools, that's what you are. You are a hero to the child that you made smile on a difficult day. You are a hero to the child you helped learn something new when he thought he couldn't do it. You're a hero to the child that you brought that brand new pencil for when she had nothing left at home to write with. The small, seemingly ordinary things that you do day after day for your kids are heroic.
Always remember to keep sight on what is important: the kids. It's the main reason we go to work every single day to do this job. Please do not let anything else get in the way of what truly is important. As educators, we are the ones responsible for taking the high expectations and accountability that's handed to us and then adapting it to make it work for our students. Always remember, you are a hero to your kids forever and always.
It's been such an honor to represent all of the educators in the Allegany County Public School system as the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year. I wish my successor an amazing year ahead on your new title and adventures that await you. Thank you.
Selection Process - Jason Huber
Schools select their school Teacher of the Year in December. Each school's Teacher of the Year can then be considered for the Allegany County Teacher of the Year.
Schools' Teachers of the Year are selected in one of two ways:
- Based on their individual school selection criteria, or
- By a peer or self-nomination
So it is possible for a school to have more than one representative.
Candidate Requirements
School candidates must be:
- Full-time classroom, resource, or media teachers who spend a majority of their time teaching
- Have a minimum of 5 years teaching experience
Representatives for the Teacher of the Year are those teachers selected at the school level who truly display the dedication and skills of an exemplary teacher. They are valued as outstanding teachers and have earned the respect of students, parents, and colleagues. They are leaders in their school and speak about educational issues and the importance of the teaching profession.
All school-level representatives must complete application criteria to be considered a county-level representative and compete for the Allegany County Teacher of the Year title.
Judging Criteria
Each county representative is judged on their professional portfolio, which includes:
- Their resume
- Their professional biography
- Answers to questions regarding the teaching profession
They are also judged on their communication and organizational skills.
Introduction of 2025-2026 Finalists
(A screen displaying information about the finalist is shown with photos of them with their students in a classroom and school setting).
At this time, I would like to introduce the 2025-2026 Allegany County Teacher of the Year finalists:
Brenda Bauer
Third Grade Teacher, Cresaptown Elementary
Brenda Bauer is a National Board Certified third grade teacher at Cresaptown Elementary with 25 years of experience. She obtained two master's degrees from Frostburg State University: a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master's in Educational Leadership.
As a strong leader, Brenda has led and continues to serve on the School Improvement Team, leads professional development, and mentors interns and fellow educators. Beyond the classroom, she values time with family and friends and is devoted to continuous professional growth. Her passion lies in crafting engaging lessons that nurture students' academic and emotional development.
Kathryn Everly
Second Grade Teacher, Belle Elementary School
Catherine Everly received her master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Frostburg State University and a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Mathematics from Frostburg State University.
Currently a second grade teacher, she participates on the School Improvement Team. Catherine inspires future educators through mentoring student teachers. She helps coach the LEGO Robotics teams at her school. Outside the classroom, Catherine helps coach for the youth recreational softball league and is very active in her church. She is committed to making a lasting impact on students' lives and shaping the next generation of leaders.
Bryan Hansel
9-12 Mathematics Teacher, Allegany High School
Brian Hansel received his Master of Arts in Teaching from Frostburg State University after he received his bachelor's degree in science for Applied Mathematics from Shepherd University.
Currently as a mathematics teacher at Allegany High School, he teaches students in general and honors Math 2, Algebra 2, Geometry, and Applied Probability and Statistics. Brian is the head football coach and assists with the unified football program. Brian has worked with the region-winning Braddock MathCounts program during his time as a student teacher and employee at Braddock Middle School.
Jeannette Milburn
Sixth Grade Mathematics Teacher, Braddock Middle School
Janette Milburn is a dedicated educator with 12 years of experience fostering student success in Allegany County. She earned her master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a STEM specialization from Frostburg State University, following her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the same institution.
She has primarily taught elementary students, and for the past three years has been a sixth grade mathematics teacher at Braddock Middle School. Beyond teaching, Janette serves on the Braddock Leadership Team, leads the sixth grade team, and mentors fellow educators. Passionate about leadership and mentorship, she strives to create a supportive learning environment for students and colleagues alike.
Kelly Miller
Second Grade Teacher, Flintstone Elementary School
Kelly Miller is a second grade teacher at Flintstone Elementary School. She values forming connections with her students and community. Kelly received her master's degree in Learning and Technology from Western Governors University and a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Frostburg State University.
This year she earned her National Board Certification in Literacy: Reading-Language Arts, Early and Middle Childhood. Kelly is a chairperson for the PBIS team. Kelly fosters a classroom environment that is engaging and positive while keeping her teaching data-driven and rigorous.
Congratulations to the finalists. You serve as excellent role models to fellow educators.
Each county finalist participates in an interview with the judges, being judged on their poise, oral communication skills, presentation and delivery, and knowledge of the teaching profession. A county Teacher of the Year winner is then selected to compete at the state level, representing Allegany County.
Announcement of the Winner
It is almost time to announce the 2025-2026 Allegany County Teacher of the Year winner, but first I need to say one more thing.
I have heard there is speculation that the color of my tie is selected to match the winner's school colors. If this has happened in the past, or if it should happen tonight or in the future, it is coincidental. I do not know who the winner is until I open the envelope and read his or her name. So I find out who the winner is about a second before you do.
Now that we have that cleared up, let's get back to the real reason we are here tonight.
At this time, I would like to announce the 2025-2026 Allegany County Teacher of the Year:
JANETTE MILBURN
Congratulations on this outstanding honor. We know that you will be a great representative for Allegany County and throughout the state of Maryland.
We're coming to you live to make your first address as the 2025-2026 Allegany County Teacher of the Year.
Acceptance Speech - Janette Milburn
Good evening, everyone. I am truly honored and humbled to be here tonight to be recognized in this way by our community—it's both overwhelming and deeply meaningful.
First, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my students, past and present. You are the reason I wake up each day excited to teach, to learn, and to grow. Your curiosity, creativity, and resilience inspire me in ways I could never fully put into words. Thank you for trusting me to be part of your journey.
To my fellow co-workers, you are my role models and my collaborators. I am constantly in awe of your dedication, your innovation, your tireless commitment to our students. Teaching is not a solo act—it's a community effort, and I am so grateful to be a part of a team that shares knowledge, compassion, and a vision for success.
To the families of my students, thank you for being partners in this work. Your support, encouragement, and engagement make all the difference. Together we help our children discover their strengths and believe in their potential.
And finally, to my own family, thank you for your unwavering love and patience. Teaching is a calling that often extends beyond the classroom, and your understanding and encouragement have made it possible for me to give my best to my students.
As I accept this award, I do so on behalf of every teacher who has gone the extra mile to reach a struggling student, who has spent long nights preparing lessons that ignite a love of learning, and who has stood in front of a classroom with hope in their heart and a belief in every child's ability to succeed.
Thank you so much for this incredible honor.
Principal's Remarks - Dr. Molly Stewart, Principal at Braddock Middle School
I am very happy to congratulate all of the Teacher of the Year candidates. Being recognized at this level by your peers at your school building is truly an honor.
That said, woohoo, Mrs. Milburn! I am elated to celebrate you as the 2025-2026 ACPS Teacher of the Year.
Mrs. Milburn is the total package. When I think about a great teacher, she exemplifies the values that we hope to see in all teachers. Janette knows her stuff—she is extremely knowledgeable about the content she teaches, but most importantly, she is truly gifted in her ability to design instruction to meet the needs of all of her students.
She cares deeply about each of our students and creates an atmosphere where they thrive not only academically but socially and emotionally as well. Janette is extremely committed to the Braddock school community. She goes above and beyond to be a collaborative partner. As you heard in her very humble speech, she is that person who just embodies all of the things of a community at a school where every student is Mrs. Milburn's student—not just the sixth graders that are in front of her.
She is a leader at our school, and I have no doubt that she will shine as the teacher representative for ACPS across the state of Maryland. It is really my privilege to get to work with Janette every day. She makes a positive impact on all of us, every single one of us, every single day. To know her is to love her, and I assure you, we all do.
And again, I am beyond excited for you, Janette. Can't wait to see you in person tomorrow to celebrate. You truly deserve every minute of tonight's celebration and every accolade that's going to come your way with the honor of being named the ACPS Teacher of the Year.
Congratulations!
Sponsor Messages
Crystal Bender, President, Allegany County Board of Education
Good evening. I'm Crystal Bender, the current president of the Allegany County Board of Education. Thank you for tuning in this evening to support and recognize this year's nominees for Teacher of the Year.
I want to extend a special thank you to the TOY committee for their hard work in making this event so special each year. On behalf of the elected Board of Education, congratulations to all of this year's nominees. Your dedication to teaching is superior and does not go unnoticed. We know that it is people like you who make our school system successful.
The vision statement of Allegany County Public Schools is to support all students in reaching their potential by providing a positive, safe, respectful, and engaging learning environment. Thank you so much for helping make this vision come to reality each and every day in your classroom, your school, and your community.
Again, congratulations to this year's nominees and this year's Teacher of the Year.
David Jones, President, Allegany College of Maryland
Hello, I'm David Jones, President of Allegany College of Maryland. It's my honor to congratulate you on being named the Allegany County Teacher of the Year. This recognition is a testament to your passion, dedication, and the lasting impact you have on your students.
Great teachers don't just share knowledge—they inspire curiosity, build confidence, and help shape the future of our community. On a more personal note, I'm honored to be a product of the Allegany County Public School system, as well as my three adult children, and I'm grateful for the teachers who give back to our community in so many ways.
Your commitment to excellence makes a difference every day, and we are grateful for all that you do. As a small token of the college's appreciation for you, we're pleased to provide you with a $100 gift card as our way to say thank you.
So on behalf of the entire college community, we celebrate your achievement and we thank you for the incredible work that you do every day. Congratulations!
Allegany County Education Association
Hello. I am pleased to be part of this exciting event and to represent the 865 educator members of the Allegany County Education Association.
Everyone has been influenced by an educator. Even as I say that, your thoughts return to a few of them who've influenced your life. That is because educators are essential to the progress of our society, and at the core of them are our teachers.
Teachers commit to provide not just knowledge and skills, but to be a constant source of encouragement and guidance to our students. They are the glue that adheres us together as a community. Yet amidst the challenges of recent years, they've been dedicated, creative, and have continuously adapted to preserve the opportunity of public education.
As David Buskirk concludes his year as the 2024 ACPS Teacher of the Year, we wish to again recognize him for achieving this distinction and for being the embodiment of our honorable profession. We also congratulate each of these exceptional teachers who are candidates for the honor this year and who exemplify the passion and commitment of our county educators.
Thank you for your dedication to our students, our profession, and our community. I'm also honored to present the 2025 Allegany County Teacher of the Year with a cash reward on behalf of your colleagues who are members of ACEA.
Again, congratulations to all, and thank you for representing us so well.
Autumn Becker, Chair, Education Committee, Allegany County Chamber of Commerce
Hello. My name is Autumn Becker, and I serve as the chair of the Education Committee for the Allegany County Chamber of Commerce. On behalf of everyone at the chamber, I'd like to extend our warmest congratulations to all the nominated educators for the 2025 Teacher of the Year award.
The chamber's Education Committee is a strong and active facilitator for business and education partnerships in Allegany County. We absolutely recognize that education is the foundation for both human development and the economic growth and vitality of our community. Through an array of programs and events conducted in partnership with early childhood through secondary education and beyond, the committee strives to build a better-prepared workforce.
Without our teachers, this mission is simply not possible. Thank you for your dedication to education, particularly over these last few years. The resiliency and progress of our students is a direct reflection of the hard work and personal perseverance of all educators right here in Allegany County and around the globe.
The chamber looks forward to further partnership with Allegany County Public Schools to ensure the success of our students and our educators. Congratulations to all of the Allegany County Teacher of the Year nominees.
Closing Remarks - Mrs. Jenny Ramsey, Teacher of the Year Coordinator
As the coordinator of the Allegany County Teacher of the Year program, I have the honor of getting to know the Teacher of the Year.
Mr. Dave Buskirk is a master teacher who has a command of best practice with early childhood instruction. He connects with his students while helping them grow and foster a love of literacy. Dave has certainly had the full Teacher of the Year experience.
When I interviewed him about his three favorite things, this is what he shared:
- The connections and friendships that he's made with the other TOYs from across the state. He notes meeting so many amazing people that have truly changed him for the better.
- The amazing trips and opportunities he has been able to experience due to being the Teacher of the Year. He notes that his favorite trip was to Smith Island.
- The ability to step outside of the classroom for a bit to bring experiences and knowledge back to the classroom to make him a better educator.
Thank You
I want to thank you for tuning in tonight, and I have some personal words of gratitude to those who made this event possible:
- Thank you to our sponsors for your continued support of the Allegany County Teacher of the Year program, as well as the support from our Board of Education.
- Thank you to our judges who were able to evaluate candidates' portfolios and to conduct interviews to select our yearly representative.
- I would like to recognize my Teacher of the Year committee: Christian Brooks, Dan Clark, Heather Morgan, and Jason Huber. Your hard work and collaboration is greatly appreciated.
- Thank you to Ryan Brenaman for making our virtual events come to life.
Congratulations to the finalists and to the 2025-2026 Allegany County Teacher of the Year. I can't wait to visit you tomorrow in your classroom. We are excited to celebrate with you in the upcoming school year.
Thanks for your viewership and enjoy the rest of your evening.
(At the end, it displays a video collage graphic of students, school events, and stock images until the ACPS logo is displayed and then a photo of the selected teacher of the year.)
End of Transcript
