State Superintendent of Schools Nancy S. Grasmick recently announced the names of seven finalists for 2010-2011 Maryland Teacher of the Year.
 
“This year’s talented finalists demonstrate unwavering dedication to academic achievement of all Maryland’s students. They are masters in their field and an important reason Maryland education has been ranked number one in the nation for the second consecutive year,” said Dr. Nancy S. Grasmick, State Superintendent of Schools. “These educators, unequivocally, deserve our gratitude and acknowledgement, as well as our respect.”
 
The finalists (in alphabetical order by jurisdiction) include:Doris L. O’Donnell, Calvert County; Mark S. Howell, Charles County; Michelle Shearer, Frederick County; Lisa Mullen, Harford County; Matthew Kinloch, Howard County; James Schafer, Montgomery County; and Tiffany Doster, Prince George’s County.
 
The finalists were selected by a panel of judges from key Maryland education organizations representing principals, teachers, school boards, teacher unions, parents and higher education. Finalists were measured against a rigorous set of national criteria that include teaching philosophy, community involvement, knowledge of general education issues, and suggestions for professional and instructional improvement. Oral interviews with the seven finalists will be conducted on Saturday, September 11th.
 
The 2010-2011 Maryland Teacher of the Year will be announced during a gala reception and dinner at Martin’s West on October 8th. The winner will receive cash awards, technology equipment, national travel opportunities, and a new car valued at over $25,000, donated by Maryland Automobile Dealers Association. 
 
Presenting sponsors of the Maryland Teacher of the Year Program are Comcast, the Maryland Automobile Dealers Association, McDonald’s Family of Greater Baltimore, and Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems. Platinum sponsors are Bank of America, Lockheed Martin, Verizon-Maryland, and Whiting-Turner Contracting Company.
 
 
The Maryland Teacher of the Year will go on to compete for the esteemed National Teacher of the Year Award, announced next April. The winner will also spend the coming year as a speaker and advisor in Maryland. The Maryland Teacher of the Year will be honored by the President at the White House next spring, participate in several national meetings and conferences, as well as in National Space Camp with fellow State Teachers of the Year.
 
Additional information on Calvert County’s finalist Mrs. Doris O’Donnell
 
Calvert County – Dowell Elementary School
Doris L. O’Donnell, Kindergarten
Doris O’Donnell has been a passionate teaching professional for eleven years. At Patuxent Elementary, Doris served as Kindergarten Team Leader, Team Data Management Coordinator, and Academic Excellence Team member. She also serves at-risk kindergarteners through an afterschool reading program. During Family Nights, she works with parents in areas of math, reading, and technology. Doris has led school and county staff development opportunities for SMARTBoard activities and differentiated listening centers. She also presents at the Southern Maryland School Readiness Conference. Doris holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University.   Mrs. O’Donnell currently teaches Kindergarten at Dowell Elementary School.