Two Brooklyn educators have been named grand prize winners of the 2026 FLAG Award for Teaching Excellence, receiving recognition for expanding opportunities for students both inside and outside the classroom.
Rayhan Ahmed, a science teacher at Gotham Professional Arts Academy and Shaude Tyson, a special education teacher at P.S. 262 El Hajj Malik El Shabazz Elementary School in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, were selected among educators from across New York City. Each will receive a $25,000 cash award, while their schools will receive $10,000 grants.
At Gotham Professional Arts Academy, Ahmed uses project-based learning to connect science instruction with environmental justice issues and scientific research. His students have examined topics including the Flint water crisis, PFAS, often called "forever chemicals" and nuclear energy.
"Our brains are wired to care about people and stories, not just formulas and facts," said Ahmed. "Science is most powerful when students use it to understand and improve the world around them. While investigating environmental issues and conducting research, I want students to see themselves as scientists and advocates who can create meaningful change."
Through partnerships with organizations such as the Brooklyn Museum, Dartmouth College, New York University and City Tech DNA Lab, students participate in laboratory research, environmental fieldwork, oyster restoration projects and water quality monitoring.
Ahmed has also helped develop the school's four-year Crew advisory program, which provides academic, social and college support to students throughout high school. He organizes college visits, mentors scholarship applicants and helps students access internships, apprenticeships and other postsecondary opportunities.
He plans to use the award funding to support a student-designed environmental justice arts project focused on the Northeast Supply Enhancement pipeline.
Tyson, who teaches students in 3-K through fifth grade, is recognized for blending academic rigor with hands-on learning experiences. Among her classroom projects is an Election Day lesson that transforms the classroom into a polling site and introduces students to democracy, voting and civic participation.
"My guiding belief is 'Students always, in all ways," said Tyson. "While teaching in the classroom and mentoring other teachers, my goal is always to create experiences that help children realize their potential and understand that they can make a difference."
Outside the classroom, Tyson serves in several leadership roles at her school and within the United Federation of Teachers. She mentors new educators and helps teachers integrate artificial intelligence into instruction.
Tyson plans to use the grant funding to expand the school's garden into an outdoor learning hub for environmental education, student performances and community events.
The FLAG Award for Teaching Excellence recognizes public school teachers whose work demonstrates creativity, leadership and a commitment to student success.
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