With all of the recent posts about teacher awards, it's only fit to announce Carroll's teacher of the year: Mary Catherine "Cathy" Stephens.

Stephens teaches fifth grade at Winfield Elementary School in Westminster, and was nominated by a former student. She's been teaching 18 years, and specializes in math, science and social studies. Before working in Carroll, she operated her own preschool for a decade, and has also worked for Howard County schools.

Turns out Stephens had very early practice for her career: The fourth of 11 children, her first students were her seven younger siblings.

"I would practice my teaching skills on them daily," Stephens wrote, describing her background. "Even though times were financially and emotionally difficult, I always had a chalkboard, writing materials and a makeshift classroom."

Stephens was awarded a $1,000 check from the Carroll County Public Schools Education Foundation during a recent employee recognition ceremony.

Congrats to Cathy Stephens!