Teachers of Promise 2026

On Friday, April 17, 2026, a group of seven senior education majors from Hood College attended the annual Teachers of Promise Institute, a Maryland State Department of Education program that recognizes outstanding teacher candidates who plan to teach in Maryland after graduation and licensure. The select group of outstanding pre-service students were paired with veteran teachers to engage in meaningful mentorship and discussions. The Hood students selected as 2026 Teachers of Promise included Sadie DeGrange ’26, Morgan Hackett ’26, Madison Knight ’26, Maggie Miller ’26, Kylie Mohr ’26, Sierra Ortega ’26 and Emily Shreiner ’26.

The event featured a keynote address from Hood alumna and 2026 Maryland Teacher of the Year ALonna Soward-Puryear ’19, M.S.’24. Another Hood alumna, Hannah Poole ’25, who majored in early childhood education with a special education focus, was also featured on a first-year teacher panel.

“It was very inspiring to see Hood College alumni as guest speakers at the Teachers of Promise Institute,” said Professor Tricia Strickland, Ph.D., elementary/special education program coordinator at Hood College. “I was inspired and deeply proud of our Hood College alumni.”

During the event, Hood’s 2026 Teachers of Promise had the opportunity to network with experienced teachers, who provided advice for what to expect during their first year of teaching and how to sustain a career in education.

“The Teachers of Promise program makes a positive impact on our students in a variety of ways,” said Strickland. “First, they are paired with exceptional veteran teachers in Maryland, who mentor them as they transition into the role of first-year teacher. Secondly, they have the opportunity to network with in-service teachers and pre-service teachers from other Maryland Institutes of Higher Education.”

Learn more about education programs at Hood College.