Robin Papa, a mathematics teacher at Clear Spring High School, is the 2026–2027 Washington County Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made this evening at the annual Teacher of the Year awards ceremony, hosted by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, at Fountain Head Country Club.
Papa is a graduate of Clear Spring High School and has taught there for her entire 28-year career in education. She also serves as the head coach for the Blazer’s track team.
“Robin’s commitment to students – both in the classroom and on the field – is extraordinary. She is a highly skilled and experienced mathematics educator, and that shows every day in her teaching,” says Dr. David T. Sovine, Superintendent of Schools for WCPS. “What sets Robin apart is her dedication to supporting the whole student. She seeks out ways to better understand and respond to her students’ needs, whether that’s mental health, the challenges of high school life, or strengthening communication. She is truly a lifelong learner who goes above and beyond to serve every student at Clear Spring High School.”
Papa believes in maintaining high expectations and providing strong support for her students while also making it her priority to show up for students beyond the classroom.
“As a mathematics teacher, I spend my days helping students solve for unknowns. But today, our students face more variables than ever before: food insecurity, language barriers, trauma, and a world being rapidly reshaped by artificial intelligence. In a world of increasing variables, the teacher must be the constant,” Papa shared with the audience, after being announced as the next WCPS Teacher of the Year. “Teaching is a profession of deep passion and often unseen labor. We carry our students’ struggles and hopes home with us because we care about the trajectory of their lives. Our goal is simple yet profound: to ensure every child has a future filled with choice and dignity. As Teacher of the Year, I will advocate for a profession that balances high expectations with even deeper connections.“
The four other finalists for this year’s Washington County Teacher of the Year title were presented with a check for $1,000 from WCPS to support their classrooms and also a gift basket from Chick-fil-A.
The finalists included:
KAELII BOYER
1st Grade Teacher at Clear Spring Elementary School
ASHLEY DOYLE
Academy of Health Professions Teacher at Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High School
CAITLIN KELLER
Connections Teacher at Boonsboro High School
ANGIE STOUFFER
Science Teacher at Smithsburg High School
Papa will now join a cohort of teachers of the year from 23 other school districts in the state who will participate in professional learning experiences. They will all be considered for the title of Maryland Teacher of the Year, which is anticipated to be announced in the fall. Good luck to Robin!
