During the National Book Month Celebration ceremony at Stanton Elementary School, Mayor Muriel Bowser named Jazzmyne Townsend the 2025 DC Teacher of the Year. Joined by Interim State Superintendent Dr. Antoinette S. Mitchell and DCPS Chancellor Lewis D. Ferebee, Townsend received the surprise presentation on Thursday, October 3.
“We are very proud to announce Jazzmyne Townsend as the 2025 DC Teacher of the Year,” said Mayor Bowser. “When we talk about how our children are challenged and loved in our schools, it is because of teachers like Ms. Townsend who go above and beyond to make sure our students feel seen and cared for.”
Currently serving as a K-5 English language arts Instructional Coach at Stanton, Ms. Townsend has cultivated a nurturing environment for her students, emphasizing inclusion and support. Her career began as a special education teacher at Stanton last year, but she previously taught at Randle Highlands Elementary School and Friendship Public Charter School. Notably, she initiated the “My Sister’s Keeper” program to support young girls facing various challenges.
“Equity is more than a buzzword. It’s more than a professional development topic that gets covered during pre-service week and then forgotten,” Ms. Townsend stated in her application. “We must strive toward equity in our daily actions, habits, policies, decisions, and interactions with students.”
Her innovative approaches to education have established her as a leader within Stanton. Principal Allen Richardson remarked, “One of the most remarkable qualities of Ms. Townsend is her ability to connect with students on a personal level.” He emphasized that her individualized support enhances academic success and fosters self-worth.
The award includes a $7,500 prize and is presented each year to a teacher from DCPS or a public charter school who excels in their field. Selection criteria focus on three key areas: fostering accelerated growth for all students, demonstrating leadership beyond the classroom through collaboration with colleagues, students, families, and communities to promote innovative teaching practices, and advocating for the teaching profession.
In addition, Ms. Townsend will receive an extra $5,000 to fund professional development opportunities during her year as the 2025 DC Teacher of the Year. As the 2025 DC Teacher of the Year, Ms. Townsend is automatically competing the National Teacher of the Year Award.
Interim State Superintendent Dr. Mitchell praised her selection, stating, “We chose Jazzmyne Townsend as the DC Teacher of the Year because she is the best of the best.” Chancellor Ferebee added, “Ms. Townsend is an important part of the Stanton Elementary and DCPS community,” expressing enthusiasm for her upcoming representation at the national level.
Three finalists for the award were also recognized: Kiara McCalvin, Rahshita Lowe-Watson, and Andrea Baker Barnes-Johnson, showcasing the depth of talent within the DC education community.
