Please join us in congratulating the 2026 Maryland Financial Education and Capability Award winners, outstanding educators and partners who are helping students and communities across Maryland build the knowledge and confidence to make smart financial decisions. The 13th Annual Financial Education and Capability Awards were presented on March 2 in Annapolis by the Maryland Council on Economic Education (MCEE), the CASH Campaign of Maryland, and the Maryland State Department of Education. The awards celebrate exceptional elementary, middle, and high school teachers, along with community champions, organizations, and corporate partners who are expanding access to financial education statewide. At the heart of the awards are Maryland educators who bring financial concepts to life in their classrooms—helping students learn about budgeting, saving, credit, investing, and long-term decision-making. “Students can achieve their lifelong dreams when they are introduced to financial and economic concepts while in school. Those important educational experiences are provided by educators who inspire and excite them,” said Julie Weaver, Executive Director of the Maryland Council on Economic Education. “At MCEE, we’re proud to honor those teachers and school leaders, as well as the members of our community, whose commitment to financial education has a real impact and makes a difference for so many Maryland students.”
2026 Award Winners
Elementary School Teacher or Program
Emma McClary, Andrea Speaks, and the Montgomery County Public Schools Elementary Social Studies Team
Middle School Teacher or Program
Ed Keeler, Easton Middle School
High School Teacher or Program
Stephen Metzger, Arundel High School
Community Champion Award
Lacy Allen, Interfaith Housing Alliance
Outstanding Organization Award
University of Maryland Extension
Sheldon K. Caplis Corporate Partnership Award
Aberdeen Proving Ground Federal Credit Union
Each honoree was recognized during a reception at the Maryland Inn in Annapolis and later acknowledged by the Maryland General Assembly for their leadership in strengthening financial capability for Marylanders. These educators and partners demonstrate how engaging, real-world financial education can empower students to think critically about money, build strong financial habits, and prepare for lifelong economic success.
