Keisha Nandalal, a Fountain Green Elementary School teacher, was selected on June 7 as the grand prize winner for The Baltimore Ravens’ 2023 Touchdown for Teachers.

The Baltimore Ravens and M&T Bank announced the finalists and grand prize winner for their 10th annual Touchdown for Teachers program, which recognizes local teachers for their leadership, dedication and commitment to education and for outstanding service to their community, according to a press release.

“Touchdown for Teachers recognizes exceptional teachers who do the vitally important work of educating our children with little fanfare,” said Augie Chiasera, M&T Bank’s regional president for Greater Baltimore, in the release. “My dad was a teacher, so I know firsthand how teachers motivate and inspire students every day. We are proud to recognize their contributions.”

Nandalal is a 29-year teaching veteran who currently teaches first grade math, science, reading, writing, phonics and social studies at the Bel Air school. Nandalal teaches an inclusive curriculum where she invites families to come in and share about their diverse backgrounds and religions with the class.

“She embraces parent volunteers and prioritizes a welcoming environment for all students by including lesson plans around Black History Month, Famous Women, Hanukkah and the Lunar New Year,” the release said.

“Keisha Nandalal is an amazing teacher who goes above and beyond at Fountain Green,” Assistant Principal Mary Ward said in the release. “She has had a tremendous impact on her students. She is also very active in her community and always encourages others to do the same. Keisha spreads kindness everywhere she goes, and the staff, students and families adore her.”

Outside of the classroom, Nandalal is an active volunteer for various organizations including Lasos, American Red Cross and We Cancerve. Upon hearing the news of her win, Nandalal was ecstatic.

“To be honest, I was absolutely stunned. It was a true honor to be recognized by my school family and an extraordinary organization like the Ravens,” Nandalal said in an email to The Aegis. “I feel so blessed to work within such an amazingly supportive school community. Each year, I believe God blesses me with the students and families I am meant to teach and learn from. I adore my students and their families. Many of them have become extensions of my family. Teaching my former students’ children fills me with indescribable joy.”

Nandalal received $5,000 in grant funds that was payable to her school; a school visit by Baltimore Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton, the Ravens Cheerleaders and Poe; and a customized Ravens jersey. After an assembly honoring Nandalal, Hamilton played basketball with her class.

School officials said discussions are ongoing to determine how the money will be used for the school.

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