Extra Yard for Teachers: Honoring Nicole Gownley
The story of one PGCPS teacher who goes above and beyond in her community.
Brady Ruth, Staff Writer
9/29/2026
Each year, the College Football Playoff Foundation honors teachers who go above and beyond in their communities with the Extra Yard for Teachers award.
This year, Nicole Gownley of Yorktown Elementary School was nominated for the award for all the work she does as the school’s Reading Data Coach.
“Being recognized through Extra Yard for Teachers means so much to me because it is a reminder that the work educators do every day truly matters,” Gownley said. “Teaching is about more than academics — it’s about building confidence, creating meaningful relationships, and helping students see their own potential.”
Modest in every way, Gownley never sought recognition. Rather, she models her teaching style after a former teacher and role model who shaped her life.
“My inspiration came from my fifth-grade teacher,” Gownley said. “He made learning fun. What continues to motivate me today is the students. Every day brings an opportunity to encourage a student, celebrate their growth, or help them overcome a challenge. Seeing those moments of progress, both big and small, reminds me why I chose this profession. Knowing that I have the opportunity to positively impact a student’s life and help shape their future is what keeps me passionate about education and committed to giving my best every day.”
Maryland Made recently took a trip to Yorktown Elementary School to surprise Gownley with the award in front of her students and supportive staff members.
The Extra Yard for Teachers recognition is an awesome way to acknowledge those who give their very best to improve the lives of students, and Mrs. Gownley is truly deserving. Having the students present to witness the celebration made the event even more special. Their excitement was contagious and exemplified the positive impact that Mrs. Gownley has made on our entire school community.Yorktown Elementary School Principal Dr. Taryn Aiken
While currently serving as the Reading Data Coach, Gownley has worn many hats during her 27-year tenure at Yorktown Elementary School. A dedicated educator committed to building future generations, Gownley has long been deserving of national recognition.
“Mrs. Gownley has been a dedicated member of the Yorktown Elementary School team for 27 years,” Dr. Aiken said. “Throughout her tenure, she has served in various roles including Special Education Resource Teacher, Classroom Teacher, Data Coach, and Testing Coordinator. Whether she is providing small group reading intervention, modeling an instructional strategy for a novice teacher, or collaborating with teachers to analyze student performance data, she consistently gives 110% and keeps the best interest of students at the forefront of her work. She has created meaningful, long-lasting relationships with hundreds of students and families and is truly a wonderful asset to our school community.”
As a leading supporter of teacher recognition, The Extra Yard for Teachers College Football Playoff Foundation has raised over $104 million in support of education, recognized over 756,000 teachers and 96,000 schools, reaching over 14 million students across the country.
“I hope my students remember that I created a place where they felt seen, valued, and believed in,” Gownley said. “I want them to remember that it was okay to make mistakes, ask questions, try again, and be themselves. Most of all, I hope they remember that I believe in their potential and want them to gain greater confidence within themselves. I want them to internalize a love of learning, and the courage to pursue their goals.”Nicole Gownley
Gownley and her family attended Maryland’s football game against Virginia Tech, where they were honored on the field during a break in the action, creating a lifelong memory.
“Today’s recognition is truly an honor and a meaningful reminder of why I chose this profession,” Gownley said. “Being recognized through Extra Yard for Teachers makes me feel appreciated, encouraged, and grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of my students. This recognition motivates me to keep showing up, giving my best, and going the extra yard for my students every day.”
