Towson University alumna Anne Cross, a fifth grade teacher at Gunpowder Elementary School in Perry Hall, has been named the 2014-15 Baltimore County Teacher of the Year.
A leader in the classroom for more than 30 years, Cross earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland and her master’s degree in elementary education from the Towson University College of Education.
She will receive a variety of awards and gifts, including a $1,000 gift for classroom supplies, a $1,000 cash award, a 40-inch flat-screen television, laptop computer and personalized iPad, among other perks, and will compete for Maryland State Teacher of the Year.
“To me, becoming a teacher was not just a job; it was a vocation to serve” wrote Cross in her application for Teacher of the Year. “Now, nearly 40 years later, I realize that teaching is much more than my career; it is my identity.
“Anne Cross is a passionate, dedicated teacher who, in her fourth decade as an educator, still brings excitement and a love of learning to her students every day,” said Dallace Dance, superintendent of Baltimore County Public Schools, in a statement.
“She reminds us that great teaching is timeless and that a committed teacher can reach children just as effectively after 30 years as she can in her first year. When she says, ‘We’re not done yet,’ we are all inspired.”
Another alumna, Patrice Goldys of Norwood Elementary School in Dundalk, was named the 2014-15 Principal of the Year. Goldys earned both a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and a master’s degree in elementary education at Towson University, and has been a principal for almost 20 years.
“The enthusiasm that Pat Goldys brings to her work is infectious,” said Dance. “Just walking through her school gives you a sense of the focus, dedication and joy in learning that goes on every day at Norwood Elementary School thanks to Pat’s leadership and vision. We are proud to have her and all of our nominated principals serving the children of Baltimore County Public Schools.”
Both Cross and Goldys were awarded in a ceremony at Loch Raven High School earlier this week.
