And the award goes to…
There’s a special energy at KIPP DC’s The Learning Center this week—and it’s more than just the joy of Teacher Appreciation Week. We’re thrilled to share that our very own Mr. Ricardo Henry, middle school math teacher and case manager at The Learning Center, has been named a 2025 Harriett Ball Excellence in Teaching Award Winner!
Selected from nearly 8,000 KIPP teachers nationwide, Mr. Henry is one of just 10 educators to receive this prestigious honor—and a $10,000 award. The recognition shines a spotlight not only on his dedication to students but on the powerful impact our teachers have on our school, our families, and our entire community.
“Last year, I was blessed to win Teacher of the Year at my school, and although I made a promise to myself to be a better teacher than I was last year, not in my wildest dreams did I believe I would be selected for the Harriet Ball Award,” Mr. Henry said.
When asked what this award means, he said, “Receiving this award is deeply meaningful to me. I have dedicated myself wholeheartedly to nurturing my students, always striving to give my best without expecting anything in return. I am sincerely grateful for the recognition and support of my leadership team.”
Mr. Henry brings more than 25 years of experience to his classroom—but if you ask him, he’ll tell you he’s still learning. “What I cherish most about teaching is the opportunity to learn—especially from my students,” he shared. “They’ve taught me the importance of being a facilitator of learning rather than a gatekeeper of knowledge.”
It’s that mindset—and the heart behind it—that makes Mr. Henry such a beloved and impactful teacher. Whether helping students discover their love for math, supporting them through a tough day, or introducing 8th graders to financial literacy before high school, he shows up every day with care, commitment, and consistency.
His school leader, Michael Cordell, couldn’t be prouder. “I was on cloud nine when I found out Mr. Henry won. I felt so grateful that a teacher who is such the consummate professional and passionate about being a mathematics teacher gets the recognition they deserve. He’s the kind of teacher who makes every student feel seen, understood, and capable. Watching him grow over the last five years—taking on new responsibilities, mentoring others, and showing what’s possible for students with significant needs—has been inspiring.”
But Mr. Henry’s success story isn’t his alone. TLC is a community that believes in lifting each other up. Teachers learn from one another. They collaborate across roles. And they lean on one another to create the kind of school where every student, no matter their past, gets a real shot at success. As Mr. Cordell put it, “The reason I was so energized by this accomplishment is that it validates all the hard work we do as a team to ensure our staff have what they need to be successful with our students. We know that the goal of every student at TLC is to finally be successful at school and be part of a school community that accepts them.”
That teamwork is evident in how Mr. Henry shows up—not just as a teacher, but as a trusted mentor, a family liaison, and a constant support for students who need it most. He’s the first to stay late when a student’s ride falls through. The one families call during emergencies. The steady, supportive presence when plans don’t go as expected. He’s also the kind of teacher to help students journal their emotions, talk to students about their interests, do puzzles or play chess with them, or give riddles to keep the kids engaged
“The most rewarding part of my role,” he says, “is witnessing student success. From overcoming initial frustration with a new concept to confidently solving math problems in front of their peers, these moments affirm that a growth mindset is taking root. When I see that transformation, I know I am making a lasting impact.”
We couldn’t be more grateful to have Mr. Henry as part of our KIPP DC and TLC family. His passion, humility, and unwavering belief in his students are exactly what this award is meant to honor.
Congratulations, Mr. Henry! Thank you for being a teacher who truly walks the walk. You remind us what’s possible when love for teaching meets deep respect for the learner.
See photos of Mr. Henry in action, and view the big moment!
