February 4th 2026
Congratulations to English Teacher Catherine Kauffmann on being named Maryvale’s Teacher of the Year nominee for the Archdiocese of Baltimore Independent School Teacher of the Year Award!
Below are some of the reasons Ms. Kauffmann received this honor.
- Ms. Kauffmann has a rare ability to make people feel comfortable the moment they walk into the classroom. There’s an openness—an aura—that makes students feel seen, welcomed, and safe to be themselves. No matter how busy the day is, she always finds time to check in, to ask how you’re doing, and to really listen to the answer.
- Learning in Ms. Kauffmann's classroom is never dull. She proves, day after day, that learning can actually be fun.
- Ms. Kauffmann pushes students to do their best while still making space for laughter, collaboration, and discussion. She encourages students to interact with one another, to share ideas, and to grow together.
- Ms. Kauffmann always offers to help when someone needs it, listens with humility and care, and brings energy and passion into every space she enters. As a teacher, she helps students become strong writers. Even more importantly, she helps them develop their own voices.
- Beyond the classroom, Ms. Kauffmann mentors students through creative writing, guiding them toward contests, publications, and personal expression. She models what it means to be both a lifelong learner and a passionate educator.
- Consistently, her students report that she is their favorite teacher they have ever had, and amongst the faculty she is regarded as a great friend, source of advice, and font of optimism and creativity.
- As a teacher of writing, Ms. Kauffmann practices the art she teaches, frequently writing her own poetry and music.
- Ms. Kauffmann's colleagues say that she is one of the most kind, dedicated, and knowledgeable teachers they have had the privilege of working with. She takes the art of teaching to a level all aspire to and demonstrates a deep commitment to her craft.
- To fully describe the effect she has on her students is nearly impossible—but what is clear is this: she is a natural teacher, a dedicated professional, a supportive colleague, and an absolute joy to be around. She has enriched her school community and impacted countless lives in ways that will be felt long after students leave her classroom. She is an exemplary educator and a great inspiration.
We are so grateful Ms. Kauffmann is part of the Maryvale community!
