In a surprising turn of events, Jazzmyne Townsend, a reading instructional coach at Stanton Elementary in Southeast Washington, was named D.C.'s Teacher of the Year during what she believed to be a National Book Month assembly. The announcement came as a shock to Townsend, who was unaware of the true purpose of the gathering.
The assembly, which took place on October 6, 2024, featured students showcasing their favorite books and performing a xylophone-backed song and dance inspired by the legendary jazz tap dancer Bill "Bojangles" Robinson. The use of xylophones in the performance is particularly interesting, as these instruments have a rich history dating back to 2000 BC in Africa and Asia.
Townsend's recognition comes with a $7,500 award and the opportunity to compete for the National Teacher of the Year title, a program that has been honoring exceptional educators since 1952. Upon receiving the award, Townsend expressed her gratitude, saying:
"I am honored, I am humbled to receive this recognition. I share this with all of the families that I have had the opportunity to pour into and to serve over the last 15 years in education. I share this recognition with my colleagues who have made me a better teacher. I share this recognition with my students who have motivated me with their curiosity, who have inspired me with their resilience."
Townsend's journey in education began at Howard University, established in 1867, where she initially studied business. However, following in the footsteps of her mother and sister, she found her true calling in teaching. Her career spans 15 years, including 10 years at Randle Highlands Elementary and 4 years in Friendship Public Charter schools before joining Stanton Elementary last year.
Beyond her classroom duties, Townsend has made significant contributions to her community. She runs a mentorship club for fourth and fifth-grade girls, focusing on mental health and providing a safe space for expression. This initiative draws inspiration from the concept of mentoring, which has roots in ancient Greek mythology.
In 2023, Townsend launched "Loads of Literacy," an innovative back-to-school event at a local laundromat. This program allowed families to wash clothes for free while also receiving books, addressing the issue of chronic absenteeism, which is defined as missing 10% or more of school days. The first laundromat in the United States opened in 1934, making Townsend's initiative a modern twist on a long-standing community service.
Townsend's impact extends to her role as a self-published children's book author, having produced two titles with her students. This achievement is particularly noteworthy considering that the first children's book was published in 1744, marking a long tradition of literature for young readers.
The recognition of Townsend's work highlights the progress made in D.C.'s education system since its inception. The first public school in Washington D.C. opened in 1804, followed by the establishment of D.C. Public Schools in 1805. Today, the average elementary school teacher in D.C. earns around $76,000 per year, reflecting the value placed on education in the nation's capital.
D.C. Public Schools Chancellor Lewis D. Ferebee emphasized the importance of recognizing educators at schools like Stanton that have shown academic improvement. This recognition comes at a time when the literacy rate in Washington D.C. is approximately 90%, showcasing the impact of dedicated teachers like Townsend.
The Office of the State Superintendent of Education, which selects the city's teacher of the year, also named three other finalists: Kiara McCalvin, Rahshita Lowe-Watson, and Andrea Baker Barnes-Johnson. These educators represent various disciplines and grade levels, reflecting the diverse talent pool in D.C.'s education system.
As Townsend prepares to compete for the National Teacher of the Year title, her story serves as an inspiration to educators and students alike, demonstrating the profound impact one dedicated teacher can have on a community.