Jamaican Keishia Thorpe elected to the US National Teachers Hall of Fame former English success coach and renowned educator, now

Keishia Thorpe, assistant principal in Prince George’s County Public Schools, Maryland, has been duly inducted into the prestigious 2024 National Teachers Hall of Fame.

Her induction took place during a surprise event at Charles Herbert Flowers High School on Tuesday (April 9).

A Jamaican native, Thorpe’s journey to becoming an influential educator was marked by personal perseverance and a dedication to empowering students facing adversity.

Thorpe attended Howard University where she graduated top of her class before obtaining a Master’s in leadership from Strayer University in 2008 and her principal license in administration from Trinity University in 2021.

During an illustrious 20-year career, Thorpe has committed herself to championing students in Title 1 schools, particularly recent immigrants navigating new language and educational challenges.

In response to the honour of being inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame, Thorpe expressed profound gratitude and reflection. “Today is bittersweet because it is my mother’s heaven day. I am just happy that I got a chance to live out the life she worked so hard for me to have and the dreams she envisioned for me. I know I am making her proud today,” shared Thorpe.

Thorpe’s journey underscores the transformative impact of dedicated educators who embody passion and purpose in their work. “I feel extremely honoured and blessed to be inducted in the National Teachers Hall of Fame,” she remarked. “When you live and walk in your true purpose and passion, not expecting anything in return, is when God truly blesses you.”

Reflecting on her approach to education, Thorpe emphasized the importance of personal connection and commitment to student success. “We don’t get to change our students, but we can change how they leave us and the impact we have on their lives while they are with us. Their stories are my story and what inspires me to continue to do the work to ensure they have a better chance at life,” said Thorpe.

Thorpe’s induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame aligns with her broader mission to advocate for educational equity and opportunity. “Education is not just hard work, it’s heartwork!” Thorpe affirmed, encapsulating the profound dedication educators bring to their classrooms every day.

Keishia Thorpe joins a distinguished cohort of educators in the 2024 Hall of Fame class, including retired chemistry teacher Joe Truesdell, music teacher Keith Ballard, English teacher Shelly Moore Krajacic, and educator Terry Kaldhusal.

The National Teachers Hall of Fame activities are scheduled to commence in Washington DC in early May, culminating in core events in Emporia, Kansas, in mid-June.