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2024 Teacher of the Year is passionate about public education

De'Shawn Washington almost became an accountant, having initially chosen a career path in finance and business. But once he started working with young students as a college student, he followed a passion for teaching and public education. Now all of Massachusetts is taking notice.
De'Shawn Washington

Washington, who has taught for seven years, recently was named the 2024 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year. He is the first Black male educator named to that honor since the awards began. A teacher of fourth grade students at Maria Hastings Elementary School, Washington spoke recently with MTA Today about the recognition and the power of supportive colleagues.

“It’s all about the passion, right? Teaching is a calling. I’m very fortunate to be in education and be in this work today.”

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Why Representation Matters

It starts with having the Black students in the classroom seeing their future selves as an older person, as a teacher, in a classroom.

 De'Shawn Washington, 2024 Teacher of the Year

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