PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Zina McGowan-Thomas, Public Information Officer, 301-475-5511, ext. 193

PETERSON NAMED AGNES MEYER WINNER

LEONARDTOWN , MD – Ben Peterson, a physical education teacher at Leonardtown Elementary School , was named St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ recipient of The Washington Post 2008 Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award.

“Mr. Peterson is very deserving of this award” said Dr. Michael J. Martirano, superintendent of schools. “His boundless dedication to both his profession and his students is a model example of the teaching profession.”

Mr. Peterson, who has over 25 years of experience as a physical education teacher, began his teaching career as a fifth and sixth grade classroom teacher, and physical education teacher in Iowa before joining St. Mary’s County Public Schools in 1987.  In addition to teaching physical education, he serves as an assistant coach for football and softball at Leonardtown High School , and is actively involved in the sports and coaching community throughout St. Mary’s County.

“Mr. Peterson’s enthusiasm for his content coupled with his athletic talent, true fondness of children, and positive attitude endear him to all who have the pleasure of knowing him” said Leonardtown Elementary School Principal Denise Eichel in her nomination letter for Mr. Peterson. “During PE class, students are encouraged and praised, and everyone knows that they don’t have to be the best basketball shooter or fastest runner to be successful.  Mr. Peterson helps them learn that true success comes from best effort and good sportsmanship.  When students leave PE, they are excited and happy, making them ready to learn when they go back to their classroom.”

The Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award was established more than 21 years ago by The Washington Post Company Education Foundation to recognize teachers who exemplify excellence in the teaching profession and is named after Agnes Meyer, a staunch supporter and defender of public education, and the wife of Eugene Meyer, who purchased the paper in 1933.

Mr. Peterson and the other recipients, representing 19 local public school districts and one representing the area private schools, were recognized at a ceremony hosted by The Washington Post.

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