Newark, MD, April 16, 2025– In a celebration of excellence in education, tonight Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) announced the 2025 Worcester County Teacher of the Year: Chef Phillip Cropper of Worcester Technical High School (WTHS).
During its 38th annual Teacher of the Year celebration, Worcester County Board of Education President Todd Ferrante made the announcement following a program honoring all 14 school-level teachers of the year and their commitment to providing a high-quality education to the young people of Worcester County.
“I am so proud of both Phil and all of the incredible teachers we have honored this evening,” said Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor. “Chef Cropper will be a fantastic representative not only for his school, but our entire school system as he progresses to the state-level program. He truly embodies what makes Career and Technical Education so special through his passion for creating hands-on learning experiences both within and beyond the classroom.”
Holding dual degrees in culinary and pastry arts, Chef Cropper has led the WTHS culinary program since 2012, creating innovative, student-centered learning experiences. Guided by his Education Without Walls philosophy, he connects students to their community, emphasizing engagement, collaboration, and real-world application.
“Students thrive when they see the relevance of their education and know someone believes in their potential,” Cropper said in his portfolio. “By immersing myself in organizations and initiatives that champion student success, I model the importance of lifelong learning and active participation in one’s community. Every experience I’ve had—as a professional, volunteer, and educator—comes back to enrich my students’ lives. I hope to leave a legacy of empowerment, inspiring students and educators to embrace learning, leadership, and advocacy as lifelong pursuits.”
Cropper was one of four finalists announced during the program, who were in the running for the prestigious title. The other outstanding finalists were Shelby Matassa of Snow Hill Elementary School, Alison Semanchik of Buckingham Elementary School, and Gretchen Wallace of Pocomoke High School.
Cropper was selected by a panel of judges representing experts in the field of education, community leaders, and the current reigning 2024 Worcester County Teacher of the Year. All candidates were judged based on a rigorous set of criteria in alignment with both the state- and national-level Teacher of the Year programs, which include instructional abilities, collaboration, building connections with our community, leadership and innovation both in and out of the classroom, and the ability to articulate their education beliefs and advocate for how to better this field.
From Left: Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor, 2025 Worcester County Teacher of the Year Phillip Cropper, Worcester County Board of Education President Todd Ferrante