De’Shawn Washington, a fourth-grade teacher at Maria Hastings Elementary School in Lexington, Massachusetts, has made history as the first Black man to be named Massachusetts Teacher of the Year.
Unanimous Cheers from Students
The Massachusetts Teachers Association announced Washington’s historic achievement on social media on November 3. He accepted the award at a school assembly filled with cheering students happy for their beloved teacher.
Washington said he was grateful to have learned so much from his students over the years. “You are the great teachers that I have been able to learn from,” he told them.
Vow to Empower Students
In a statement, Washington said his duty as an educator is “to continuously learn how to empower my students to not only master grade-level standards but to be upstanding individuals with the capacity to ignite change in their communities.”
Prior to his current role, Washington taught elementary school in the Boston Public School system. He is dedicated to advancing educational excellence.
State Secretary Honors Washington’s Mother
Massachusetts Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler attended the award ceremony to honor Washington. He also thanked Washington’s mother, Melanie Evans, for “raising a brilliant community leader.”
Tutwiler later tweeted he was grateful to celebrate Washington as Teacher of the Year for his commitment to “fostering inclusivity, advocacy, and growth in his students.”
Advancing in National Competition
As Massachusetts Teacher of the Year, Washington will serve as an ambassador for public education in the state. He will also represent Massachusetts at the National Teacher of the Year competition in April.
Washington is currently a doctoral student studying educational leadership and policy. He aims to expand career pathways for educators and support future changemakers.
