Ms.Taylor Spotlight: The David McCullough Prize

Earlier this year, Masterman’s very own AP African American Studies teacher, Ms. Taylor, received The David McCullough Prize for Teaching. The David McCullough Prize is awarded to an educator or educators from the Philadelphia region who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in history, social studies, or political science. 

Prior to her job as a teacher, Ms. Taylor held an impressive commitment to her education. She attended UC Berkeley for college, then earned a teaching degree from Columbia’s Teachers College, and additionally earned a master's degree in history from Temple University.

With this amazing educational background, Ms. Taylor still finds herself amazed at the wonders of history and teaching history. “It’s really interesting to learn things about the past. I’m often shocked when students find new information in their research. There’s a constant ability to find something new.” 

When asked “What's your favorite thing about teaching?” She noted how wonderful it was to see many unique personalities in a room, and how exciting it is to see students grow. She also spoke about her love of the challenge of figuring out how to engage students best.

The McCullough Prize came as a surprise for Ms. Taylor. She shared, “I got this email randomly during the summer, [and] I was so surprised.” She found herself celebrating this award many times: at Carpenter’s Hall where she met Tony Watlington, the Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia; at City Hall where a resolution was passed for her recognition; and at a gala where she and the national winner of the Prize will be celebrated. Although very grateful for her recognition, Ms. Taylor highlighted, “It’s nice to feel seen and be recognized, but there are a lot of great teachers out there who are also deserving of this prize, and I wish they could get it.”