Robert Benjamin Excellence in Direct Instruction Reading Award

Robert Benjamin Excellence in Direct Instruction Reading Award

Funder: Baltimore Curriculum Project (BCP)

Overview: An annual award that recognizes two outstanding Direct Instruction reading teachers within BCP's six neighborhood conversion charter schools.

Background

The award was created and funded by the late Bob Benjamin, a devoted BCP Board member who embraced the power of Direct Instruction (DI). Bob was an accomplished journalist and editor who researched effective reading and school improvement models in the 1970s and authored a book highlighting Zig Engelmann, the founder of DI.

Eligibility

• Direct Instruction reading teachers at BCP schools
• BCP operates six schools: City Springs Elementary/Middle, Frederick Elementary, Govans Elementary, Hampstead Hill Academy, Pimlico Elementary/Middle, and Wolfe Street Academy

Award Details

• Recipients per year: Two teachers
• Cash prize: Included with award (amount not specified)
• Recognition: Award presented at BCP events; celebrates teachers who use Direct Instruction to its full potential

Recent Winners

• 2024-2025: Juwariyah Saboor (1st Grade, Pimlico Elementary/Middle) and Brianna Spady (4th-5th Grade, Wolfe Street Academy)
• 2023: Brian White (7th Grade Math, Hampstead Hill Academy)
• 2022: Stacey Hicks (Instructional Coach, City Springs) and Victoria Jennings (Assistant Principal, Govans)
• 2021: Dorothy Glewwe (Kindergarten, City Springs)
• 2020: Marvelyn Johnson (Instructional Coach, Frederick Elementary)

Geographic Scope: Maryland (Baltimore)

Contact: Baltimore Curriculum Project, 2707 E Fayette St, Baltimore, MD 21224 | 410-675-7000 | bcpinfo@baltimorecp.org