City Schools CEO Sonja Santelises dropped by Justin Holbrook’s class to deliver some news on Thursday afternoon.
According ton BCPS, the Roland Park Elementary/Middle School educator was named Teacher of the Year for the district this year. Holbrook, who teaches fourth grade science and math, started teaching at the school in 2010. He’s been a finalist for the award before, and rose to the top of the competitive process that includes observations and an interview with Santelises this year. In a statement, Santelises said he “embodies the qualities that all teachers should have.”
“He encourages students to work together to achieve individual and group academic and community goals,” said Roland Park Elementary/Middle Principal Nicholas D’Ambrosio. “Mr. Holbrook’s leadership has extended well beyond his role as classroom teacher and has left a remarkable impression on other staff, including myself. He has pushed me to bring a positive energy and enthusiasm to school every day by demonstrating a relentless approach to making the life of students better.”
Holbrook goes above and beyond his classroom duties. He’s active in Twitter education conversations, and founded #BmoreEdChat to bring teachers together. Last year, he organized a professional development day called EdCampX, and took it statewide this year.
With the win, he’ll receive a cash award and classroom supplies. Additionally, Holbrook moves up to be considered for Maryland Teacher of the Year. He also gets to throw out the first pitch at an Orioles game.
