Butterfly Ridge Elementary School third-grade teacher Casey Keyser was named the 2021 recipient of the NEA Member Benefits Award for Teaching Excellence, which is given annually to an educator who demonstrates exemplary teaching, attention to diversity, and advocacy for the profession.
Keyser was one of five nationwide finalists of the award. She was named the recipient during the 2021 NEA Foundation Salute to Excellence in Education virtual gala February 12.
“I am thrilled to see Casey Keyser recognized nationally by the NEA Foundation,” FCPS Superintendent Dr. Terry Alban said. “She is so deserving of this honor and always focuses on what is best for her students.”
Keyser’s passion for education and creativity in the classroom were cited as reasons for her winning this prestigious national award. She founded the Bow Tie Club at Butterfly Ridge Elementary to encourage students to dress for success. Guest speakers from the community visited the club on a weekly basis.
Keyser is in her third year at Butterfly Ridge Elementary and taught for eight years at Liberty Elementary. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Towson University and a master’s degree in Instructional Technology from Mount Saint Mary’s University. Keyser will graduate in May with an additional master’s degree in Administration and Leadership from Mount Saint Mary’s.