Randall Bednar, a fourth-grade teacher at Landon School in Bethesda, is this year’s recipient of the Shirley J. Lowrie “Thank You for Teaching Award” from Independent Education, an organization of independent schools in the Washington, D.C. area.

Bednar has taught at Landon for 13 years and also has served as assistant and head coach of the varsity baseball team.

In selecting Bednar, the committee took note of the recommendation of his colleagues highlighting the bond that he has developed with his students, the passion that he brings to teaching and his unfailingly kind and humble manner.

The committee also noted that Bednar recommenders all attested to the difference he has made in the lives of his students. The award, which includes a $2,500 prize, is made possible through a partnership between the Shirley J. Lowrie Memorial Fund, Independent Education, and The Community Foundation for Montgomery County.

The Shirley J. Lowrie Memorial Fund, was established to honor the late wife of Gerald Lowrie and mother of Lynn Longley and Rick Lowrie. Shirley Lowrie taught for several years in California and Connecticut before moving to Potomac. She remained a strong supporter of the teachers in her family’s life.