A night of celebration and recognition for outstanding educators in Charles County took place on February 20 at St. Charles High School, where Alison Cheney, a physical education teacher at F.B. Gwynn Educational Center, was named the 2025 Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) Teacher of the Year.
The event honored nominees for both the CCPS Teacher of the Year and The Washington Post Teacher of the Year award programs. This year, 39 educators were nominated for the distinction, with six finalists selected for their exceptional contributions to student learning, mentorship, and community impact.
Cheney, an adaptive physical education teacher, has dedicated 17 years to CCPS. She began her career at North Point High School, working with students who have physical and cognitive challenges before transitioning to F.B. Gwynn in 2022. There, she has continued to advocate for inclusive learning experiences, ensuring that students of all abilities have access to meaningful and engaging physical education.
Superintendent Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D., praised the nominees for their unwavering dedication to students, emphasizing the vital role teachers play in shaping future generations. “I love being able to spend some time with incredible human beings who know their craft really well,” Navarro said. She also highlighted how educators continually inspire her through their knowledge, innovation, and commitment to student success.
Recognizing Excellence in Teaching
The CCPS Teacher of the Year program aims to highlight educators who go above and beyond in their profession. The selection process involves nominations from schools across the county, recognizing teachers who excel in student engagement, leadership, and contributions to the school community.
Alongside Cheney, five other teachers were honored as finalists for the award:
- Erin Amore, a second-grade teacher at Dr. James Craik Elementary School
- Georgia Green, a special education teacher at Gale-Bailey Elementary School
- Aparna Joshi, a social studies teacher at St. Charles High School
- Sara Keener, an English teacher at Piccowaxen Middle School
- Megan Swinea, a science teacher at Indian Head Elementary School
Board of Education Chairperson Yonelle Moore Lee, Esq., commended all nominees, calling them the “best of the best.” Out of thousands of educators in the county, these individuals were selected to represent their schools for their dedication, innovation, and ability to inspire students.
Last year’s CCPS Teacher of the Year, Henry E. Lackey High School Spanish teacher Josh Clark, reflected on the honor of serving as an ambassador for education. “The dedication, the passion, the hard work you pour into students every day does not go unnoticed,” Clark said. “This room is filled with teachers who inspire, uplift, and shape the future for their students.”
A Teacher Who Inspires Through Inclusion
Cheney’s impact on her students extends beyond physical education. At F.B. Gwynn Educational Center, she fosters an inclusive environment where students of all abilities can participate, grow, and build confidence. She ensures that every student feels seen and valued, helping them celebrate small victories that build toward long-term success.
Behavior specialist Amy Adams described Cheney’s classroom as one where respect, curiosity, and resilience thrive. “By encouraging students to take risks, make mistakes, and embrace learning, she helps instill confidence that lasts far beyond the school year,” Adams said.
Students also recognize her dedication. Connor Carroll, De’Veon Venerable, and former student Khaliyah Terry described Cheney as more than just a PE teacher in their recommendation letter, stating, “She is an inspiring mentor who makes every lesson a fun, educational, and empowering experience.”
Cheney incorporates creative and engaging teaching methods, such as obstacle courses and teamwork challenges, ensuring that physical education is both interactive and meaningful. Her approach helps students develop not just physical skills, but also social confidence and teamwork abilities.
Beyond the Classroom: Advocacy and Leadership
In addition to her role as a teacher, Cheney is involved in numerous school and community programs. She organizes and facilitates the therapy pool program for students requiring aquatic therapy and serves as F.B. Gwynn’s public relations liaison, helping to coordinate school events like Trunk-or-Treat, winter family gatherings, and Lunch with Your Special Person.
She is also a coach and district representative for Special Olympics Maryland’s Unified track and field program, advocating for greater inclusivity in sports and education. Through her professional learning initiatives, Cheney helps other educators develop strategies to create more accessible learning environments for students with disabilities.
Her commitment to inclusion has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, Cheney received the Simon McNeely Award from the Society of Health & Physical Educators (SHAPE), a recognition given to educators who significantly promote health and fitness among students.
What’s Next for Cheney and the Finalists
As the CCPS Teacher of the Year, Cheney will now represent Charles County in the Maryland State Department of Education’s Maryland Teacher of the Year competition, where she will compete for the statewide honor. The winner of that award will go on to represent Maryland in the National Teacher of the Year program.
Additionally, one of the five remaining finalists will be selected this spring to represent CCPS in The Washington Post’s Teacher of the Year program, which highlights outstanding educators across the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.
The recognition of Cheney and all honorees underscores Charles County Public Schools’ commitment to educational excellence, celebrating the teachers who make a difference in students’ lives every day.
Celebrating Teachers Across Charles County
The Teacher of the Year program is a long-standing tradition in CCPS, recognizing the educators who shape future generations. Each school and educational center in the county nominates one teacher to be considered for the honor, showcasing outstanding commitment to teaching and student development.
This year’s nominees included teachers from a variety of backgrounds, grade levels, and specialties. Their dedication to academic excellence and student support highlights the diverse and dynamic nature of Charles County’s educators.
As Cheney moves forward in representing CCPS at the state level, her work stands as a testament to the power of inclusive education, innovative teaching, and unwavering dedication to students.
For more information about the CCPS Teacher of the Year program and other educational initiatives, visit the Charles County Public Schools website.
