GCPS educators recognized by the American Classical League

     Two Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) teachers have been recognized by the American Classical League (ACL) to receive the 2025 Merens Award. Catherine Sturgill, an English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teacher at Shiloh Middle School, and Rachel Ash, a Latin teacher at Parkview High School, have been selected for this honor for their commitment in the classroom. The award is given to instructors who have demonstrated distinguished service to the Classics profession and the ACL. The Classics refer to Greek/Latin languages, texts, and culture. 

     “I am proud to celebrate Catherine Sturgill from Shiloh Middle and Rachel Ash from Parkview High for winning the American Classical League 2025 Merens Award,” says GCPS Director of World Languages and Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Dr. Virin Vedder. “Their passion for classical education and dedication to their students is truly inspiring. It’s especially exciting that Parkview High has back-to-back winners, with Keith Toda, last year’s recipient, handing off the award to his colleague, Rachel Ash. This rare achievement really showcases the incredible talent we have in our district. Congratulations to all the winners!”

     The Merens Award is the highest honor the ACL presents to its members. To be eligible, an individual must have been a member of the organization for at least five years. Every spring, a committee of teachers representing all educational levels—elementary, middle, high, and university—selects four recipients.