Tony Sanders Board Member | Council of Chief State School Officers
The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) has named Ashlie Crosson, an English teacher from Pennsylvania, as the 2025 National Teacher of the Year. Crosson works at Mifflin County High School, teaching Advanced Placement language, composition, English 10, and an elective titled "Survival Stories," which looks into global humanitarian crises from a youth perspective. In addition to her teaching duties, she advises the school's journalism program.
Crosson's path was shaped by her experiences as a first-generation college student, where the support of teachers and counselors was crucial. This inspired her to enter the teaching profession to offer similar guidance to future generations. She has expanded learning opportunities for her peers and students, such as creating the MC Goes Global program, which promotes international travel to enhance student education.
As National Teacher of the Year, Crosson will advocate for educators while spending a year emphasizing the importance of authenticity in teaching. She asserts that teaching with authenticity can help students develop the skills to become future entrepreneurs and problem-solvers. "I strive to build a curriculum that facilitates communication, empowers students to problem-solve, and expands their worldview," Crosson explained.
The CCSSO’s National Teacher of the Year Program, with Google for Education as the lead sponsor, aims to recognize and amplify the voices of exceptional teachers across the country. Carissa Moffat Miller, CEO of CCSSO, praised Crosson, stating, "By using her voice, Ashlie promotes the importance of our nation’s teachers and how their critical role can shape the outcome of our children’s future."
Pennsylvania's Acting Secretary of Education, Dr. Carrie Rowe, also commended Crosson, highlighting her commitment to her students and community. Rowe said, "The honor bestowed upon Ms. Crosson demonstrates that here in the Commonwealth, we attract, prepare and retain high-quality teachers who make a real and lasting impact on millions of learners."
Representatives of national K-12 education organizations form the independent Selection Committee that chooses the National Teacher of the Year. The committee described Crosson as "an authentic, self-reflective leader" who inspires students and advocates for the teaching profession.
The 2025 National Teacher of the Year finalists included Mikaela Saelua from American Samoa, Janet Damon from Colorado, and Jazzmyne Townsend from the District of Columbia. More information about Crosson and the finalists is available at the CCSSO website.
The National Teacher of the Year Program enjoys sponsorship from Google for Education as the lead sponsor and other organizations including Cambium Assessments, Pearson, and the American Institutes for Research among others.
Further details about the key contributions of CCSSO, a nonpartisan organization involving public education officials across the nation, can also be found on their platform.
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