Two GCPS educators earn honors for outstanding instruction in computing

     Jason Hurd, an artificial intelligence (AI) and computer science (CS) teacher at Seckinger High School, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Regional Affiliate Educator Award by the National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT). Hurd was recognized for his continued excellence in the classroom, teaching, encouraging, and supporting women in the field of Information Technology. He is among 120 educators honored this year.

     Batavia Sumlin, a Computer Science teacher at Paul Duke STEM High School, made the 2025 Regional Affiliate Educator Award Honorable Mention list.

     “This award is really a reflection of the amazing students I get to work with. Teaching artificial intelligence at the high school level is such a new territory in computer science education, and being recognized for that work affirms that we’re heading in the right direction, particularly with our young women throughout our AI and CS programs,” Hurd shares. “It is exciting to be contributing to students' real-world skills while boosting their confidence to imagine themselves in future tech careers.”

    Each year, the NCWIT, through its Aspirations in Computing (AiC) Program, recognizes classroom and educational leaders nationwide for their commitment to computing and technology studies at the high school level.

     “This award highlights Mr. Hurd’s exceptional commitment to inspiring students in computer science and emerging technologies. It also reflects the innovative spirit and dedication to excellence that define our educators and school district,” GCPS Director of Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Sallie Hollway shares. “This honor reinforces our commitment to empowering each and every student with the skills and confidence to thrive in a technology-driven world.” 

     Hurd says he’s inspired by his students each and every day. “Their creativity, their curiosity, and their resilience keep me on my toes as I search for ways to challenge them and expand their knowledge and skills through the AI pathway,” Hurd adds. “Seeing them light up when they understand a complex concept or build something they have imagined continues to remind me why I became a teacher. Helping young people find their place and become AI-future ready is a privilege I don’t take lightly.”

     NCWIT supports K-12 education by providing programs and resources that further their mission of making technology accessible for underrepresented communities at the national and local level through initiatives like BridgeUp STEM, Conversations for Change, Aspirations in Computing, and beyond.