The Washington Post Announces its 2025 Teacher & Principal of the Year
The Washington Post has announced the winners and finalists of the 2025 Teacher and Principal of the Year Awards. Now in its 42nd year, this annual honor recognizes outstanding school leadership and celebrates educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to improving student outcomes across the Washington metropolitan area. Educators are nominated by their school systems and communities based on their exemplary work and steadfast commitment to their students' success. Teachers and principals are evaluated on leadership, innovation, collaboration, and their ability to foster positive learning environments. Honorees receive a $7500 monetary award, profile in The Washington Post, feature spot in a Washington Post advertisement and a signature trophy.
The Post's 2025 Teacher of the Year is Kimberly Poole and Miriam Schimmoller
This year's Teacher award resulted in a tie, and we are delighted to recognize and celebrate two outstanding recipients.
Kimberly Poole stands out as an exceptional educator through her unwavering commitment to student growth, innovative teaching, and deep personal connections with her school community. With 29 years at Simpson Middle School, Mrs. Poole has impacted generations of students, first as an English teacher and now as an Introduction to Computer Applications instructor. She is well known for cultivating a sense of belonging and self-confidence, inspiring students to explore, create, and achieve beyond their own expectations.
Mrs. Poole's leadership extends beyond the classroom: she advises the yearbook, supports colleagues, and is a visible, positive presence at school and community events. Above all, Mrs. Poole's legacy is her ability to make every student feel valued, capable, and inspired to succeed—a true model of educational excellence.
Read about Mrs. Poole's work at J. Lupton Simpson Middle School.
Miriam Schimmoller, a third-grade teacher at Oak Street Elementary School with 25 years of experience, believes in teaching by example, embracing change, and encouraging students to see value in their mistakes and abilities. Leading with kindness and gentle yet firm approach, she is known for her ability to make learning fun through various activities. She inspires a desire to learn and achieve by encouraging students to explore their individual interests.
Parents and colleagues praise Mrs. Schimmoller's ability to understand individual student needs, encourage talents, and foster self-esteem. She cultivates a strong sense of community, maintaining open communication with parents and serving as a mentor to other teachers.
Read about Mrs. Schimmoller's work at Oak Street Elementary School.
The Post's 2025 Principal of the Year is Jeffrey Joseph
Principal Jeffrey Joseph of Dominion Trail Elementary School is known for his student-centered approach and dedication to fostering a positive school environment. He prioritizes building strong relationships with students, staff, and families, creating a collaborative and supportive atmosphere. Mr. Joseph is deeply invested in the success of each student, working tirelessly to ensure they have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.
Mr. Joseph is constantly seeking innovative ways to improve teaching and learning. He empowers teachers to take risks and explore new strategies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. His commitment extends beyond the school day. He is actively involved in the community, building partnerships that benefit students and families, making a profound impact on the entire school community.
Read about Mr. Joseph's work at Dominion Trail Elementary School.
The Post also recognized 27 teacher and principal finalists, listed below:
2025 Teacher of the Year finalists
· AnnaClaire Ballard-Ayoub, Pre-K through 5th grade music teacher, Brunswick Elementary School
· Rebecca Burtram, 7th Grade Team Leader, English Teacher, Odessa Shannon Middle School
· Katherine Garcia-Larner, English Learner Teacher, Arlington Community High School
· Georgia Green, Special Education Teacher, Gale-Bailey Elementary School
· Elizabeth Heist, Music Teacher, Lake Shore Elementary School
· Abigail Huser, 7th Grade Science Teacher, Grace E. Metz Middle School
· Symone Jenkins, High School English Teacher, West Potomac High School
· Alison Koenigsberg, 1st Grade Teacher, Cougar Elementary School
· Hunter Martin, Band Director, Leonardtown High School
· Rachel Novick, Middle School Spanish Teacher, Plum Point Middle School
· Tyrone Page, Director of Bands, Oakland Mills Middle School
· Sharon Phox, Third Grade Teacher, James K. Polk Elementary School
· Tracey Watterson, Special Education Level 2 High School Teacher, Colonial Forge High School
· Carmin Wimpy, 4th Grade Teacher, Claude Thompson Elementary
2025 Principal of the Year finalists
· Nicholas Adam, J.P. Ryon Elementary School
· Rebecca Bowen, Calvert Middle School
· Deborah Dennie, Leonardtown Middle School
· Joshua Fine Flower, Hill Elementary School
· Jamie Gadley, Dranesville Elementary School
· Amy Guerke, Ruth Parker Eason School
· Suzanne Hess, Naomi L. Brooks Elementary School
· Michele Hupman, Weems Elementary School
· Jennifer Perilla, George G. Tyler Elementary School
· Ellen Smith, Dorothy Hamm Middle School
· Lisa Smith, Hammond Middle School
· Dashan Turner, North Stafford High School
· Stephanie Ware, Walkersville High School
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