The state Department of Education invites residents to nominate candidates for the state’s 2026 Teacher of the Year.

The Teacher of the Year program celebrates educators who’ve made significant contributions in their field. Nominations will be taken through Dec. 16. Finalists are recognized in Harrisburg each fall. The 2025 Teacher of the Year will be announced at the department’s SAS Institute on Dec. 9.

Western Pennsylvania teachers recognized through the program over the past decade include Ryan Hardesty of the Blackhawk School District, Joe Welch in the North Hills School District and Mairi Cooper in the Fox Chapel School District.

The 2026 Teacher of the Year will represent Pennsylvania at various local, regional, and national functions culminating in the National Teacher of the Year ceremony at the White House.

Nominations can be submitted through the National State Teachers of the Year organization’s Pennsylvania chapter. Find a nomination form at NSTOYpa.org.

Copyright ©2025— Trib Total Media, LLC (TribLIVE.com)