BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
"I chose teaching because I believe giving students the chance to write their stories has the power to change lives. Every student brings their own story into the classroom, and it’s a privilege to help them find their voice. But most importantly, I stay teaching after all these years because I see the light in my students — their resilience, their curiosity, and their courage. They inspire me to keep showing up, creating brave spaces where they feel seen, valued, and empowered to write the next chapter of their lives."
KAT LOCKE-JONES,
7th Grade Teacher, Baltimore County, Teacher of the Year 2025