Washington County Teacher of the Year Raymond Weber has been named one of seven finalists for the 2023-2024 Maryland Teacher of the Year Award. Weber, who teaches 5th grade, has spent his entire 13-year teaching career at Salem Avenue Elementary School. This is the sixth consecutive year the WCPS Teacher of the Year has been selected as a state finalist. 

WCPS Superintendent of Schools David Sovine says, “We are extremely proud of Mr. Weber and his commitment to helping each of his students reach their full potential. He is an outstanding representative of the teachers who work in Washington County and would be an outstanding choice if selected as the 2023-2024 Maryland Teacher of the Year. Raymond is dedicated to his work and creating a positive school environment where students feel comfortable and can become more engaged in their learning.”

As Weber brought his class to lunch in the Salem Avenue Elementary School cafeteria Monday afternoon, Sovine surprised him with the news of becoming a state finalist. The room erupted in cheers and applause from students and staff alike as the superintendent congratulated the county’s top teacher.  

As Weber brought his class to lunch in the Salem Avenue Elementary School cafeteria Monday afternoon, Sovine surprised him with the news of becoming a state finalist. The room erupted in cheers and applause from students and staff alike as the superintendent congratulated the county’s top teacher.

"It is an honor to be selected as a finalist for Maryland's Teacher of the Year," Weber says. "This acknowledgement is a reminder that as educators, we have the power to make a difference and mold a brighter future. It is a humbling experience, fueling the fire to continue pushing boundaries and transforming lives through the power of education. "

During his career with WCPS, Weber has participated in writing elementary curriculum, professional development, and served on Salem Avenue Elementary’s School Improvement Team. He is a Fulbright Teacher Scholar and previously earned the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, which is a national honor. He also serves as a mentor for Destination Imagination and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Weber earned his bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and Shepherd University and holds a master's degree in Instructional Design and Technology from West Virginia University.

The 2023-2024 Maryland Teacher of the Year will be announced during a gala reception and dinner at Martin’s West in Baltimore on October 13, 2023. The winner will receive cash awards, national traveling opportunities, and participate in several national meetings and conferences.

The selected Maryland Teacher of the Year will compete for the esteemed National Teacher of the Year Award, to be announced next April. Maryland’s Teacher of the Year will also spend the 2023-2024 school year as an educational speaker and advisor in Maryland and will be honored by the President at the White House next spring.