Caroline Schlegel, a Spanish teacher at Smithsburg High School, is the 2021-2022 Washington County Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made this afternoon at Washington County Public Schools’ (WCPS) Center for Education Services during a live stream on the WCPS Facebook page and a live broadcast on the WCPS cable channel. 

As the winner, Schlegel receives $6,000 to support her classroom from WCPS. Representatives from Hagerstown Honda also provided her with the keys to a 2021 Honda Accord EXL, which she will have to drive during her term as Teacher of the Year. In addition, Schlegel receives a prize package that includes free Chick-fil-A for a year from Chick-fil-A of Hagerstown. 

“It is with great pride and extreme gratitude that I have the opportunity to represent the incredible teachers in our county,” Schlegel says. “There are hundreds of deserving teachers in Washington County, and I am honored to be alongside the impeccable examples of pioneers in education that each of my colleagues embodies. I sincerely thank WCPS and Dr. Michael for advocating for teachers and providing us with the extensive technology and training we needed to do this job to the best of our ability.”

“Caroline is an outstanding educator to represent WCPS and her fellow teachers,” says Dr. Boyd Michael, superintendent of schools. “Her enthusiasm in the classroom is relentless and contagious. Her passion for teaching is evident within mere moments of walking through the door. Caroline not only teaches language, but she connects students with various cultures and inspires students to use their knowledge in service to others.”

Schlegel has 14 years of experience as a teacher. She is in her fifth year of teaching at WCPS. She began her career with WCPS at Western Heights Middle School before moving to Smithsburg High. Caroline is the 2019 Maryland World Language Teacher of the Year, and she recently earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy, an international award that certifies working proficiency in two or more languages. Caroline has presented professional development for over 10 years at the local, state, and national level. Caroline graduated from Salisbury University in 2008 with a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Secondary Education and in 2016 received her Masters degree in Educational Leadership from the same institution. 

The four other finalists for Washington County Teacher of the Year were also presented with a check for $1,000 to support their classrooms. The finalists include:

• Christopher Grove, Potomac Heights Elementary School and Bester Elementary School
• James Rossi, Northern Middle School
• Kathryn Thomas, Clear Spring Elementary School
• Wayne Violet, Washington County Technical High School

Schlegel will now join a cohort of teachers of the year from 23 other school districts in the state who participate in professional learning experiences. They will all be considered for the title of Maryland Teacher of the Year, which is anticipated to be announced in the fall.