The principals gathered in the hallway. One brought the flowers. One brought the famous orange throne. They all brought their smiles, ready to honor English teacher Monica Washington as Teacher of the Year.

The administrators surprised Washington in her classroom today with the announcement as she was in the midst of teaching her English class.

“It feels amazing,” Washington said. “I try everyday to work really, really hard and not be a worksheet teacher. I put my all into it and try to plan things that are exciting and fun. Sometimes you get in the cubbyhole of your room and don’t know if your coworkers or the principals really know what you do and all the things that you put into what you’re doing. For somebody to recognize that feels amazing.”

Principal Brad Bailey said Washington was a deserving recipient.

“I think it’s incredible. I think she’s an incredible person,” Bailey said. “She puts so many extra hours into the day helping her students get better. She spends the mornings before school preparing, making sure activities are engaging and making sure the classes are fun and they are learning a lot in class. We are very proud of her to get this award.”