Educators, administrators and local leaders filled the golf course ballroom at the University of Maryland, College Park on April 16, as Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) honored International High School at Langley Park (IHLP) ninth and 10th grade English teacher Clara Allsup as the 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year.
“Ms. Allsup inspires curiosity, ignites motivation, and challenges her students to reach higher every single day,” said PGCPS Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph during the Thursday celebratory ceremony. “Her unique background equips her exceptionally well to support international students. We are proud of her accomplishments and equally proud to celebrate all of our finalists, who represent the very best of Prince George’s County Public Schools.”
The newly minted teacher of the year, who has worked with IHLP’s diverse student population since 2018, served as a class sponsor for several years and has led both science clubs and academic competitions at her school. She was presented a new red Honda as part of her prize haul.
“I’m deeply grateful to Billy Shulman, Dr. Eunice Humphrey, LCPC, ACS, and Lisa Sacco for being the leaders who have always supported me, giving me the space to learn and grow these past eight years,” Allsup wrote in a LinkedIn post. “I’m also thankful for my colleagues — past and present — at the International High School at Langley Park for fostering a culture of collaboration, commitment to students, and pursuit of excellence.”
Her students also praised her attention to their academic development. Several students cited her assistance in developing their English skills.
“She’s a wonderful teacher. She always helps us in a situation when we can’t find solutions,” said one of her students in a PGCPS video.
Allsup dedicated the recognition to her “incredible students.”
“Their curiosity, courage, and determination in the face of challenges are what inspire me to bring my best self to the classroom every day,” she wrote in the social media post.
Rebekah Benson-Flannery of College Park Academy and Dr. Julita Lizardo, English teachers and National Board Certified educators at Largo High School, were named first and second runners-up during the competition. Both educators were awarded a free overnight stay at The Hotel at University of Maryland.
“As a former teacher of the year, I understand what it takes to represent PGCPS as the marquee educator. Dr. Lizardo is one of the finest educators I have ever met,” said Largo Principal Albert Lewis. “Regardless of role, she is someone who loves to teach. She has spent more than 30 years doing this work.
Next Steps for the Competition
As first-place winner, Allsup will be representing Prince George’s during the Maryland State Department of Education’s statewide competition.
The Maryland Teacher of the Year will be announced this fall and the winner will advance to the National Teacher of the Year competition.
IHLP Acting Principal William Shulman said the Prince George’s winner is a “quintessential educator.”
“She has a remarkable ability to meet struggling students where they are while fostering growth and confidence,” said Shulman in a press release. “A true team player and a cornerstone of Prince George’s County Public Schools, Ms. Allsup doesn’t just teach – she leads, supports, and inspires those around her.”
The English teacher said her work is about uplifting young Prince Georgians.
“I’m honored to represent this community,” Allsup said, “and to continue working toward equity and academic excellence for all learners.”
