Great teachers do more than teach lessons. They change lives. Just ask the students at Thurgood Marshall Academy Public Charter School.
On Oct. 26, students, educators, and city leaders gathered to celebrate Ramon Griffin, DC’s 2027 Teacher of the Year, recognizing an educator whose passion extends far beyond the classroom.
For Griffin, who teaches African American Studies and Math, education is more than a profession. It’s a calling.
“What I love about Thurgood Marshall, in particular, is the fact that we are a family,” Griffin shared. “I feel at home when I come to work.”
That connection is reflected in his students.
“I think it’s amazing seeing Mr. Griffin excel, because he’s very passionate about everything he does,” said senior Armani Lindsey. “That drive and that motivation gets me driven and motivated, too.”
Senior Ny’zon O’Benson shared a practical lesson that has stayed with him: “The biggest lesson that he taught me is to never be late and be on time, because you will miss something.”
Ny’zon plans to follow in Mr. Griffin’s footsteps and attend Morehouse College in the fall.
Thurgood Marshall Academy Executive Director Raymond Weeden said the recognition also highlights the importance of great educators in public charter schools.
“The selection of a charter school teacher highlights the importance of choice. Charter schools are doing what they can to make sure they have great educators in front of students. And Mr. Griffin and the rest of the team are an example of that.”
“To be a public charter school teacher and win Teacher of the Year for DC is an honor [because] I relocated to Washington, DC after my time in Atlanta at Morehouse College, and the charter school system is where I began. I’ve matriculated through other school systems, but I’ve come back to a charter school,” added Griffin.
DC PCSB Executive Director Dr. Michelle Walker-Davis echoed that sentiment during the celebration.
“At DC PCSB, we talk often about school quality, student outcomes, and accountability. Those things matter tremendously. But today reminds us that behind every data point is a student, and behind so many student success stories is a teacher who believed in them..”
With 13 years in education, Griffin exemplifies what happens when passion, purpose, and opportunity come together.
Today, we celebrate Mr. Griffin and the educators across DC who do more than teach. They inspire, empower, and help shape what’s possible for the next generation.