Ashlie Crosson, named the 2025 U.S. National Teacher of the Year, is sharing valuable insights during Teacher Appreciation Week. The distinguished English teacher from Mifflin County High School in Pennsylvania has gained recognition for her innovative approach to education and commitment to fostering empathy and critical thinking.

As an accomplished educator, Crosson’s teaching portfolio includes Advanced Placement language and composition, English 10, and a unique elective course called Survival Stories. This specialised course examines global humanitarian crises through a youth-centred perspective, demonstrating her dedication to broadening students’ worldview.

Drawing from her personal experience as a first-generation college student, Crosson’s journey into education was inspired by her own teachers. “I decided, if I could, I wanted to do for another generation of students what was done for me,” she shares, reflecting on her motivation to become an educator.

Her innovative contributions to education extend beyond traditional classroom teaching. Crosson has established groundbreaking programmes such as MC Goes Global, which provides international travel opportunities for students. Additionally, she oversees a journalism programme responsible for publishing both the school newspaper and district magazine.

The “Seeking Asylum” unit, part of her Survival Stories curriculum, exemplifies Crosson’s teaching philosophy. Through the study of memoirs documenting global crises, students develop empathy whilst honing their critical thinking skills. This approach has proven particularly effective in engaging students from diverse backgrounds and abilities.

Crosson’s excellence in educational leadership earned her recognition as a Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms fellow, an experience that significantly influenced her teaching methodology. Her expertise extends to serving on statewide committees, where she has contributed to educational frameworks, including the integration of a global framework into Pennsylvania’s Standards Aligned System.

In her role as a leader and mentor, Crosson emphasises the vital role of educators as change-makers. “I strive to create learning experiences that resonate with my students, foster empathy, and build critical thinking,” she states, highlighting her commitment to meaningful education.

Her recognition as National Teacher of the Year reflects the growing emphasis on innovative teaching methods and community engagement in education. Crosson’s achievements demonstrate the transformative impact educators can have in preparing students to address global challenges whilst fostering a more empathetic and critically aware generation.

News Source: https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/education/teacher-appreciation-week-2025/