MPCS Announces 2026 Washington Post Teacher of the Year Nominees
February 13, 2026
Manassas Park City Schools is proud to announce the 2026 Washington Post Teacher of the Year nominees selected to represent each school. These outstanding educators exemplify excellence in instruction, a deep commitment to students, and meaningful contributions to their school communities.
From these outstanding educators, one nominee will be selected to represent Manassas Park City Schools in the 2026 Washington Post Teacher of the Year program.
Deidre Gladney
Washington Post Teacher of the Year Nominee
Cougar Elementary School
Deidre Gladney, a first-grade teacher at Cougar Elementary School with more than 30 years of experience in elementary education, has been nominated to represent Cougar Elementary School in the 2026 Washington Post Teacher of the Year in recognition of her profound impact on young learners.
Known for creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences, Gladney brings lessons to life through classroom markets, shared writing experiences, and real-world problem solving that build both academic skills and student confidence. She carefully differentiates instruction to meet the needs of every learner, fostering curiosity, resilience, and a genuine love of learning.
As parent and colleague Dr. Viviana Figueroa wrote, “What truly sets Mrs. Gladney apart is her unwavering commitment to excellence, equity, and student growth—combining strong instructional expertise with deep care for her students to create a classroom where children achieve at high levels while feeling supported and valued.”
Through her dedication to collaboration, family partnerships, and student-centered teaching, Gladney continues to shape not only successful learners, but a strong and connected school community.
Mary Vaughn
Washington Post Teacher of the Year Nominee
Manassas Park Elementary School
Mary Vaughn, a fourth-grade teacher at Manassas Park Elementary School, has been nominated to represent Manassas Park Elementary School in the 2026 Washington Post Teacher of the Year program in recognition of her exceptional instructional expertise, student-centered leadership, and commitment to inclusive learning environments.
Known for making complex concepts accessible, Vaughn combines strong content knowledge with intentional relationship-building to support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. She empowers students to take ownership of their learning through goal-setting, reflection, and a classroom culture that values progress over perfection.
As noted by the Manassas Park City Schools’ Director of Instruction, Stacey Mamon, “What sets Ms. Vaughn apart is her ability to connect strong instructional practice with meaningful relationships, creating a classroom culture built on trust, respect, and belonging where students feel valued, supported, and confident in their learning.”
Beyond her classroom, Vaughn’s leadership as a department chair, curriculum contributor, and community organizer continues to strengthen instruction and collaboration across Manassas Park Elementary School.
Nicole Popule
Washington Post Teacher of the Year Nominee
Manassas Park Middle School
Nicole Popule, a sixth-grade math teacher at Manassas Park Middle School, has been named Manassas Park Middle Schools’ 2026 Washington Post Teacher of the Year nominee in recognition of her ability to inspire confidence, curiosity, and achievement in students across all readiness levels.
Through a collaborative, student-centered classroom grounded in Math Workshop and Building Thinking Classrooms, Popule helps students view challenges as an opportunity for growth and perseverance. Her commitment to differentiated instruction, after-school tutoring, and innovative curriculum design has transformed students’ attitudes toward mathematics.
As parent Sita Ewell shared, “Through Ms. Popule’s engaging teaching style, patience, and genuine encouragement, my daughter not only improved her test scores but developed a true appreciation for math.”
Beyond the classroom, Popule extends learning through initiatives such as the Board Game Club and STEM-focused field trips, including the MadiSTEM Conference at James Madison University, empowering students—especially young girls—to envision themselves as confident problem-solvers and future leaders in STEM.
Molly Brolaski
Washington Post Teacher of the Year Nominee
Manassas Park High School
Molly Brolaski, Music Teacher and Director of Bands at Manassas Park High School, has been nominated to represent the school for the 2026 Washington Post Teacher of the Year in recognition of their extraordinary impact on students through music education.
Known for fostering student voice, goal-setting, and personal growth, Brolaski empowers students to take ownership of their learning while building confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of the arts. Under their leadership, students have helped select concert repertoire, explored new musical pathways through the creation of the Instrumental Foundations course, and achieved historic milestones for the school’s band program.
As Dr. Lisa Eckstein noted, “Molly Brolaski is a transformative educator whose leadership and care empower students to believe in themselves, strive for excellence, and achieve milestones they once thought were out of reach, leaving a lasting impact on both their musical growth and their lives.”
Their dedication to inclusive instruction, collaboration, and authentic performance experiences continues to inspire students and strengthen the Manassas Park community.