Michael James, an English teacher at North Harford High School and the 2026 Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) Teacher of the Year, has been named the 2027 Maryland Teacher of the Year. He is the first HCPS teacher to earn the state’s top teaching honor since 1996.

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) announced the award at a gala reception at Martin’s Valley Mansion in Cockeysville on Friday, October 9, 2026. James was selected from among 24 school system Teachers of the Year and will now represent Maryland in the National Teacher of the Year program. The Council of Chief State School Officers will name the national winner in April.

James has dedicated more than 30 years to education and currently serves as English Department Chair at North Harford High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Washington & Jefferson College in 1993 and a Master of Arts in Reading from Towson University in 2004. He is also a National Board Certified Teacher.

Throughout his career with HCPS, James has served as a teacher, coach, curriculum writer, and professional development leader. A strong advocate for student voice, he is the advisor of Voices of Equity and the editor of Misentity magazine.

“This marks an incredible moment in HCPS history,” said Superintendent Dyann R. Mack. “Mr. James’ commitment to keeping our students at the center of his work is what makes him truly deserving of this honor. HCPS shines bright because of Mr. James.”

“Winning Maryland Teacher of the Year is one of those things we teachers never think about because we didn’t get into teaching to receive awards,” said James. “This is a reminder that people appreciate and recognize our efforts to help students be the best versions of themselves. One of the most powerful adjectives I use in my classroom is ‘groovy,’ and if I’m being honest, tonight is one of the grooviest nights of my career!”

Please join Harford County Public Schools in congratulating Mr. James on this well-deserved recognition!