National Association for Gifted Children Names Two ACPS Teachers as 2019 Javits-Frasier Scholars

- Kudos to Staff

ACPS is celebrating two teachers being named as 2019 Javits-Frasier Scholars.

Alejandro Gomez of Jefferson-Houston PreK-8 IB School and Rachel Forbes of Francis C. Hammond Middle School are honored for bringing equity to gifted education.

The 2019 Javits-Frasier Scholars recognizes passionate, innovative educators who work in districts that serve students from low-income and minority populations that are historically underrepresented in gifted education.

Each year, the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) selects teachers, school psychologists, or school counselors who have been nominated for excellence. The award may only be received once.

Both recipients expressed appreciation for the recognition.

Gomez is “very grateful to NAGC for recognizing our experiences, work, and dedication to education.”

Forbes shared a Ralph Waldo Emerson quote, “Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.”

Francis C. Hammond principal Pierrette Peters said, “Rachel Forbes has been an instructional asset for not only our TAG students but also teachers who teach honors courses. Her work at Hammond has made a positive difference in the lives of our TAG students and teachers. She is a professional asset who believes in the vision and capacity of our TAG students to reach their greatest potential.”

Speaking of Gomez, MScott Berkowitz, principal of Jefferson-Houston said that he, “continues to improve his craft in ways that engage and connect with all learners. We are impressed with his pursuit of excellence in teaching and proud of him for achieving this honor.”