Prince Frederick, Md., April 24, 2025 — Two Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) educators have earned recognition as finalists for The Washington Post’s 2025 Teacher and Principal of the Year Awards. Rebecca Bowen, principal of Calvert Middle School, is a finalist for Principal of the Year, and Rachel Novick, a Spanish teacher at Plum Point Middle School, is a finalist for Teacher of the Year. Announced on April 22, the awards celebrate educators who foster innovative and supportive learning environments across the Washington metropolitan area.
In its 42nd year, The Washington Post’s program honors outstanding educators in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Finalists are selected through nominations from school districts or community leaders, evaluated for leadership, innovation, and student impact by a committee of educators, administrators, and parents. Bowen and Novick stood out among hundreds of nominees for their dedication to student success and creative approaches to education.
Rebecca Bowen has led Calvert Middle School for over 10 years, implementing initiatives like expanded STEM programs and peer mentoring to enhance student engagement. Her leadership has contributed to improved academic outcomes, with the school seeing a 10% rise in reading proficiency since 2021, according to district reports. “Mrs. Bowen’s ability to connect with students and staff creates a culture where everyone feels valued,” said CCPS Superintendent Dr. Andraé Townsel during a surprise recognition event at the school.
Rachel Novick, an eight-year veteran at Plum Point Middle School, is celebrated for her dynamic teaching style. She integrates cultural projects and technology, such as virtual exchanges with Spanish-speaking students, to make learning engaging. “Ms. Novick goes above and beyond to ensure every student feels confident in their abilities,” said Plum Point Principal Kelly Cleland at Novick’s recognition ceremony. Her efforts have boosted student participation in language programs by 15% over three years.
The Washington Post also named its 2025 winners: Kimberly Poole and Miriam Schimmoller as Teachers of the Year, and Jeffrey Joseph as Principal of the Year. Poole, a business education teacher at J. Lupton Simpson Middle School, and Schimmoller, a third-grade teacher at Oak Street Elementary School, were honored for innovative instruction. Joseph, principal of Dominion Trail Elementary School, was recognized for collaborative leadership. Winners receive a $7,500 award, a trophy, and a feature in The Washington Post.
CCPS marked the occasion with surprise visits from district leaders, including Townsel, who praised the finalists’ impact. “These educators exemplify the dedication that drives student success in Calvert County,” he said. The district, serving 15,461 students across 23 schools, has a strong track record, with 85% of its schools earning state accolades for academic performance in recent years.
The awards, launched in 1983 for teachers and 1987 for principals, aim to highlight educators who transform learning environments. Past recipients, like 2024 Teacher of the Year Laura Senturia, have been recognized for their lasting impact. Bowen and Novick’s recognition reflects Calvert County’s commitment to educational excellence, supported by initiatives like the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, which funds teacher training and curriculum enhancements.
Community response has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents and students gathered at both schools to celebrate, with local leaders noting the finalists’ role in strengthening Calvert’s schools. CCPS plans to expand professional development in 2026 to further support educators like Bowen and Novick, ensuring continued innovation in the classroom.
