Anne Arundel Co. Teacher Named MD's Dance Educator Of The Year

CROFTON, MD — A teacher who's been with Anne Arundel County Public Schools since 2016 was just awarded a top recognition tied to the district's dance program.

Rachel Morrissey of Crofton High School was recently presented with the High School Dance Educator of the Year award by the Maryland Dance Education Association, the district announced in a release.

Every year, the award is presented to individuals who not only serve as role models for students but also use innovative learning experiences.

"Just like the mirrors in a dance studio, I strive to show my students all that they are capable of becoming as dance performers, choreographers, and most importantly human beings," Morrissey said in a statement.

"I enjoy collaborating with my dancers to give them unique learning opportunities through arts integration, leadership roles, student choice, experiences with the creative process, and opportunities for reflection."

Greg Ryan, principal of Crofton High School, described Morrissey in the release as an "amazing educator whose relentless positivity and genuine care for her students are at the heart of everything she does."

"She consistently goes above and beyond to support, encourage, and create opportunities for her students to grow not only as dancers, but as young people. Crofton High School is extremely lucky to call her one of our own," Ryan said.

Morrissey signed on at Crofton High in 2016, but had previously taught dance at MacArthur Middle School and in the Apex Arts program at Brooklyn Park Middle School and Wiley H. Bates Middle School.

She is the sixth educator in the Anne Arundel County Public Schools district to earn the award since 2017.

Morrissey will be officially recognized in October during the annual MDEA convention.