Gunpowder ES Teacher Nominated for 'Celebrate Teachers' Contest

Gunpowder Elementary's Amy Blackwell is one of eight educators nominated for the White Marsh Mall's Celebrate Teachers! initiative, which highlights the very best teachers in our communities. 

Blackwell, who comes from a long line of educators, recalls teaching her stuffed animals as one of her earliest memories, according to her county website.

“We have some great examples of teachers who affect their students’ lives in really positive and unique ways. I encourage anyone who had a teacher that inspired them during their own education to vote,” Lisa Bisenius, general manager for White Marsh Mall, said in a release.

The winner of the contest will be awarded a $500 mall gift certificate on National Teacher Appreciation Day, Tuesday, May 7. The winner will also be celebrated at an event at the Greene Turtle on May 10. 

Voting is open from April 16 to 28—one vote per person, per day. Cast your vote here. But first, a little more about our nominee from Perry Hall.

“Mrs. Blackwell is nothing short of fabulous," writes an anonymous commenter on the contest Facebook page. "She is incredibly dedicated to her students, and goes above and beyond to make sure they have the supplies and support they need to excel.

"Her class is extremely smart, I know that is a result of all she has taught them," the commenter continued. "My son is reading 3rd grade words, and continues to be challenged.  She makes learning fun, and my son never complains 'do I have to go to school?' She deserves to win this prize, because of her dedication and selflessness. She is the epitome of what a kindergarten teacher should be."

Music to an educator's ears.

But wait, there's more!

"Mrs. Blackwell is the most incredible teacher that a parent or student could ask for," writes Perry Hall resident Stacey Schantz. "When my son entered kindergarten, I was very worried about him. Would he fit in? How would he deal with being at school all day? Would he be challenged? Would his teacher like him?

"So many questions and concerns, as this was my first child entering school. Within about 45 seconds of meeting Mrs. Blackwell, I knew we had lucked out! She's caring, compassionate and is focused 100 percent on her students excelling," Schantz continued. "I appreciate how she takes the time to answer questions, emails, phone calls. And most importantly, because of her, my son absolutely LOVES school."

Stick with Patch as we continue to follow this contest. In the meantime, post a quick comment about Ms. Blackwell if she has ever taught your child or perhaps is a co-worker.

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