***NEWS RELEASE***
Ocean City, MD – Queen Anne’s County Public Schools (QACPS) is proud to share that two of its outstanding educators, Kesley Fitzgerald of Sudlersville Middle School and Scotta Murdoch of Queen Anne’s County High School, were honored as recipients of the 2025 Simon McNeely Award by SHAPE (Society of Health and Physical Educators) Maryland.
Notably, Queen Anne’s County was home to two of the three award winners from the Eastern Shore, highlighting the district’s strength in health and physical education.
The Simon McNeely Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exemplary teaching and service in Health, Physical Education, Recreation, or Dance. Awardees are celebrated for their innovative instructional practices, involvement in professional organizations, contributions to school and community initiatives, and at least five years of professional experience in their field.
“It was a wonderful evening, and the banquet was a fantastic celebration of excellence in our field,” said Michael Page, QACPS Supervisor of Curriculum for Physical Education and Health. “Seeing our teachers recognized for their hard work and dedication was truly inspiring. We are incredibly proud of the impact they have on our students and our community.”
Mrs. Fitzgerald and Ms. Murdoch were formally honored at the SHAPE Maryland Awards Ceremony on Saturday, November 15, 2025. SHAPE Maryland is the state’s professional organization dedicated to supporting and advancing health, physical education, recreation, and dance.
QACPS congratulates both educators on this significant achievement and thanks them for their commitment to student health, wellness, and education.
Download a PDF copy of the news release here.