Among the evening’s honorees was Kiara McCalvin, a French teacher at Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science and a 2025 and 2026 DC Teacher of the Year finalist. Recognized for leading beyond the classroom and accelerating student growth, McCalvin’s work reflects the power of education and cultural connection.
“This honor means the world to me,” said McCalvin. “It honestly is proof that what I’m doing is reaching the students that I teach every day. My goal as a teacher is just to open up their world and spark their curiosity about other people, other cultures, and honestly, to help prepare the next global citizens.”
For McCalvin, the recognition is especially meaningful because of her deep connection to the school community. A graduate of Howard University, she said returning to campus to teach at Howard University Middle School “aligned so perfectly” with her goals of giving back to the community that helped shape her.
The ceremony also celebrated several outstanding educators from across the DC public charter school sector, including:
- Chris Gleditsch, KIPP DC- College Prep High School: 2026 DC Teacher of the Year finalist
- Kyra Zemanick, BASIS PCS: 2025 DC History Teacher of the Year
- Alfons Prince, Center City PCS: 2025 PAEMST Teacher of the Year
- Ayinde Spradley, Friendship PCS (Woodridge International): Nominated for the 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools program.
Additional congratulations go to the many DC PCSB school representatives recognized as National RISE Award finalists and nominees, including:
- John Green, Mary McLeod Bethune PCS
- Daniela Santos, LAYC Career Academy PCS
- Jeff Hayes, Capital City PCS
- Lori Farrar, Gloria Iglesias, and Melody Jackson, Center City PCS (Brightwood)
- Jazzmyn Julius, Appletree PCS
- Samuel Cale, Mary McLeod Bethune PCS Day Academy
- Juanita Allen, Lee Montessori PCS (Brookland)
- Cynthia Robinson, Friendship PCS (Collegiate Academy)
- Tajuana Queen, Sela PCS
As DC Deputy Mayor for Education Paul Kihn reminded attendees, “The strength of our schools is in this room.” Last night’s celebration made that abundantly clear.
Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees for their commitment to DC students and families.