Press Release: International High School English Educator Named Prince George’s County Teacher of the Year
April 16, 2026
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
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Upper Marlboro, MD – Clara Allsup, English teacher at International High School at Langley Park, has been named the 2026–2027 Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made during a celebratory event at the University of Maryland, College Park, where Allsup was also awarded a three-year leased vehicle courtesy of Pohanka Automotive Group and NAI Michael.
Rebekah Benson-Flannery of College Park Academy and Dr. Julita Lizardo of Largo High School were named first and second runners-up, respectively. Both are English teachers and National Board Certified educators.
Allsup teaches 9th and 10th grade multilingual learners, bringing a blend of academic rigor and real-world relevance to her classroom. With nearly eight years of experience serving International High School at Langley Park’s diverse student population, she is recognized not only for her instructional excellence but also for her leadership across the school community.
“Ms. Allsup inspires curiosity, ignites motivation, and challenges her students to reach higher every single day,” said PGCPS Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph. “Her unique background equips her exceptionally well to support international students. We are proud of her accomplishments and equally proud to celebrate all of our finalists, who represent the very best of Prince George’s County Public Schools.”
In addition to her classroom impact, Allsup plays a vital role in shaping school systems and student supports. She serves as Recruitment and Intake Committee Chair, where she helps assess incoming students and connect them with critical academic resources and wraparound services. She is also the school’s Master Scheduler and a key contributor to its performance planning efforts.
“Ms. Allsup is the quintessential educator, blending exceptional organizational expertise with a deep and unwavering commitment to student success,” said IHLP Acting Principal William Shulman. “She has a remarkable ability to meet struggling students where they are while fostering growth and confidence. A true team player and a cornerstone of Prince George’s County Public Schools, Ms. Allsup doesn’t just teach – she leads, supports, and inspires those around her.”
Allsup holds a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of Maryland. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education in School System Leadership for TESOL. In 2024, she earned National Board Certification in English as a New Language for Adolescents, the highest credential available to educators, reflecting a level of expertise that directly benefits her students and school community.
Her leadership extends beyond academics into student life. She has served as Senior Class Sponsor for multiple graduating classes and has led science clubs and academic competitions, fostering curiosity and engagement beyond the classroom.
As Teacher of the Year, Allsup will represent Prince George’s County in the Maryland State Department of Education’s statewide competition. The Maryland Teacher of the Year will be announced this fall, with the winner advancing to the National Teacher of the Year competition.
All three finalists received awards and prizes sponsored by Pohanka Automotive Group, NAI Michael, Educational Systems Federal Credit Union, American College of Education, Target, and The Hotel at the University of Maryland.
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