Several Montgomery County Public Schools teachers with military backgrounds or connections are being recognized through a national initiative that celebrates and supports educators.
Through the College Football Playoff Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers program, sponsored locally by Wegmans, the Military Bowl Foundation recently awarded grants to 10 teachers across the Washington region. Four of the recipients teach in MCPS schools, highlighting the county’s strong representation among educators who have also served in the military or supported military families.
At Argyle Middle School, Carlesha Douglass is being honored for her nearly two decades in the classroom. A U.S. Air Force veteran who served five years on active duty and five years in the reserves, Douglass is now in her 19th year as a teacher. She teaches computer science and engineering as part of the school’s Innovative Minds program.
Gaithersburg Middle School math teacher Megan Hinton, a U.S. Army Reserves veteran, was also selected for the grant. Hinton teaches middle school math and serves as the eighth grade team leader, helping guide students academically while supporting her colleagues.
Flower Hill Elementary School physical education teacher Martha McKinney is another MCPS recipient. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served from 2012 to 2016, McKinney was part of the first group of female Marines accepted into infantry school at Camp Geiger, helping pave the way for women to enter combat arms roles. She now brings that leadership experience into her work with elementary students.
At Springbrook High School, special education teacher Matt Pflieger was recognized for his service and dedication to students. A six-year U.S. Navy veteran, Pflieger teaches in the Learning for Independence program, working with students with intellectual disabilities on life skills and functional academics.
The Extra Yard for Teachers initiative is the College Football Playoff Foundation’s primary philanthropic program, designed to elevate the teaching profession through resources, recognition, recruitment, and professional development. As part of the program, Wegmans features special in-store displays highlighting educators and their impact.
For MCPS, the recognition underscores the diverse backgrounds and experiences teachers bring into county classrooms, including years of military service that continue to shape how they support and inspire students every day.