Eight teachers from the Muscogee County School District (MCSD) will attend the prestigious Harvard University Graduate School of Education June 23-27, courtesy of the Muscogee Educational Excellence Foundation’s (MEEF) Harvard Fellows program. This year’s Harvard Fellows (HF) are: 

“MEEF’s Harvard Fellows return from Harvard inspired, empowered, and equipped with innovative strategies that elevate learning for all students. They not only transform their own classrooms, but also mentor colleagues, lead professional development, and serve as trusted advisors to district leadership. Their voices and expertise are shaping the future of education in Muscogee County,” said Marquette McKnight, MEEF’s Executive Director.

2023 Teacher of the Year and Harvard Fellow, Tasha Morman describes the importance of the program. “Being a Harvard Fellow is professional development at its deepest and most transformative level. It’s not about trendy resources or the latest educational buzzwords—it’s about a complete shift in how we think about teaching and learning. Project Zero challenges educators to embrace holistic, thoughtful approaches that truly equip students with the tools they need to thrive and learn.” 

MCSD Superintendent David Lewis praised MEEF and Harvard for their incredible support of this program. "MEEF remains one of MCSD’s most committed partners, consistently recognizing and uplifting our most exceptional teachers. Through this powerful collaboration, our teachers gain access to world-class professional learning and meaningful growth opportunities at Harvard. The results of this partnership are energizing our entire district and inspiring excellence in every classroom." 

Since 2012, MEEF has sent 90 teachers to Harvard and after sending this year’s thirteen teachers, (a total of 98 teachers), MEEF will have invested more than $866,000 in classroom teachers through the Harvard Fellows program. 

The Fellows are selected from the pool of past MCSD Top Ten Teacher of the Year Honorees from the last ten+ years. Each of the selected teachers will attend the Harvard Graduate School and the Project Zero Classroom where they will spend a week with preeminent education scholars and other innovative teachers from around the world. Harvard Fellows will enhance their knowledge and expertise to recognize and develop students’ multiple intellectual strengths; encourage students to think critically and creatively; explore instructional methods that deepen student engagement, model intellectual curiosity and rigor, and make learning more visible.