Sharyn Stein Receives 2024 Bill Cook Award for Excellent Teaching

The Potomac School honored Ms. Sharyn Stein, Intermediate School math teacher, with the 2024 Bill Cook Award for Excellent Teaching during the school’s Opening Assembly on September 6. Named in honor of beloved teacher and Assistant Head of School Bill Cook, who passed away in 2016, the award is presented annually to teachers “who exemplify the commitment to excellence and love of learning that define a Potomac School education.”

Stein graduated from Amherst College before receiving a Master’s degree in math education from Smith College. She began teaching almost forty years ago and has been part of the Potomac community for more than 30 years. Since 1992, she has taught math, and served as an advisor, softball and soccer coach, club leader, and Discovery Day Camp director at Summer@Potomac, among other roles.

Will Bennett, a senior and former student of Stein’s, shared, "Ms. Stein's enthusiasm for learning can energize any classroom. She motivated me to try my best and give it my all. She made me a better math student.”

Stein once shared her thoughts on being an educator by saying, “What other career would allow and encourage me to surround myself with people, both young and old, who stand firm in their belief of seeing the world the way it should be and not the way it is?”

During the Opening Assembly, in front of more than 1,2000 community members, Head of School John Kowalik offered, “She brings the same passion and energy today as she did when she started teaching. If you ask, she’ll tell you she has the best job in the world.”

She is consistently described as “a loyal friend – funny, authentic, and steadfast in her values.” For almost 30 years, she has led students to volunteer with the Little League Challenger Division, an adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. “Sharyn’s generosity of spirit makes a lasting impact on all who meet her,” offers Kowalik. “So much so that last year, she officiated a wedding for two Potomac alumni.”

Peers share that she is a sought-after advisor as she consistently sees the potential and the good in each of her students. Madeleine Steves '26, another former IS student of hers, offers, "What truly sets Ms. Stein apart is her genuine interest in each of her students' backgrounds and stories. She encouraged me to be a better version of myself and was always there to listen. Her enthusiasm and caring nature is felt in every interaction and her presence was a comforting constant in my school life. Ms. Stein always makes me feel heard and valued. Her impact on my life is profound, and I am deeply grateful for the encouragement and support she has continued to provide me as I progress into my last few years at Potomac."

Bennett notes Ms. Stein's dedication to his academic success, saying, "It was unwavering. She consistently provided me with the support and resources necessary to succeed. I feel fortunate to have had her as my teacher and believe she is most deserving of this award.”

Learn more about 2023 recipient Cort Morgan.