J’can elected to National Teachers Hall of Fame Class

Jamaican Keishia Thorpe, former English success coach and renowned educator, now Assistant Principal in Prince George’s County Public Schools, Maryland, has been elected to the prestigious 2024 National Teachers Hall of Fame Class. The announcement of Thorpe’s induction took place during a surprise event at Charles Herbert Flowers High School on Tuesday, a release noted.

Originally from Jamaica, Thorpe’s journey to becoming an influential educator was marked by personal perseverance and a dedication to empowering students facing adversity.

Thorpe attended Howard University where she graduated top of her class before obtaining a master’s degree in leadership from Strayer University in 2008 and her principal licence in administration from Trinity University in 2021.

During an illustrious 20-year career, Thorpe has committed herself to championing students in Title 1 schools, particularly recent immigrants navigating new language and educational challenges.

Responding to the endorsement, Thorpe said: “Today is bittersweet because it is my mother’s heaven day. I am just happy that I got a chance to live out the life she worked so hard for me to have and the dreams she envisioned for me. I know I am making her proud today,” shared Thorpe.

“I feel extremely honoured and blessed to be inducted in the National Teachers Hall of Fame,” she remarked. “When you live and walk in your true purpose and passion, not expecting anything in return, is when God truly blesses you.”

Reflecting on her approach to education, Thorpe emphasised the importance of personal connection and commitment to student success. “We don’t get to change our students, but we can change how they leave us and the impact we have on their lives while they are with us. Their stories are my story and what inspires me to continue to do the work to ensure they have a better chance at life,” said Thorpe.

Thorpe’s induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame aligns with her broader mission to advocate for educational equity and opportunity. “Education is not just hard work, it’s heartwork!” Thorpe affirmed.

Keishia Thorpe joins a distinguished cohort of educators in the 2024 Hall of Fame class, including retired chemistry teacher Joe Truesdell, music teacher Keith Ballard, English teacher Shelly Moore Krajacic, and educator Terry Kaldhusal, the release noted.

The National Teachers Hall of Fame activities are scheduled to commence in Washington DC in early May, culminating in core events in Emporia, Kansas, in mid-June.