Two Eastern Shore Teachers Named State Finalists

State of MD - The Maryland State Department of Education and Maryland State Board of Education announced seven finalists for 2027 Maryland Teacher of the Year on September 3. Two of them teach right here on the Eastern Shore.

Dr. Chelsea Taylor of James M. Bennett High School in Salisbury represents Wicomico County Public Schools. Alice Tickler of Church Hill Elementary School represents Queen Anne's County Public Schools.

Dr. Taylor has taught at James M. Bennett for 12 years. She serves as a tenth grade English teacher, literacy coach, and instructional leadership team co-chair.

She also mentors students on college essays and is pursuing National Board Certification. Dr. Taylor co-published research on drama strategies in English Journal for teachers nationwide, and has presented at conferences on the local, state, and national level. She also teaches as an adjunct professor at Salisbury University.

Tickler is a National Board Certified first-grade teacher. She serves as a literacy leader at the school, county, and state levels through the Maryland Literacy Association, Maryland READS, and the MSDE Teacher Advisory Council.

She has experience as a Reading Specialist. Tickler has also led professional development aligned with the Science of Reading.

The seven finalists were chosen from 24 local school system teachers of the year. A selection panel made up of leaders from Maryland education organizations reviewed each candidate on student achievement, teaching philosophy, academic results, community involvement, and knowledge of education issues.

"Maryland's educators continue to raise the bar for excellence, and this year's finalists exemplify that commitment in every way," said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. "Their passion for teaching, their focus on equity, and their unwavering belief in each student's potential inspire all of us. We are proud to recognize their exceptional work and celebrate the difference they make every day."

Dr. Joshua L. Michael, State Board of Education President, also praised the group. "These finalists embody what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and innovation," he said. "Their impact reaches far beyond their classrooms, shaping school culture, strengthening communities, and elevating the teaching profession across our state."

The 2027 Maryland Teacher of the Year will be announced at a gala dinner at Martin's Valley Mansion in Cockeysville on Friday, October 9. The winner will go on to compete for National Teacher of the Year, an award set to be announced in April.

Whoever wins will spend the 2026-2027 school year traveling the state as a speaker and advisor on education issues. Maryland has taken part in the National Teacher of the Year Program for more than 30 years, and three Maryland teachers have won the national honor since 2006.