The Pennsylvania Department of Education is encouraging Pennsylvanians to nominate an outstanding educator to be the Commonwealth’s 2026 Teacher of the Year.

“Every day in classrooms across the Commonwealth, our outstanding educators are making a difference for millions of learners,” Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin said. “Being named Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year is a prestigious honor that opens doors and creates exciting opportunities for networking, professional development and mentorship – and gives hardworking teachers the accolades they deserve.”

The Teacher of the Year program celebrates excellence in teaching and honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the young people of Pennsylvania.

Nominations will be accepted until Dec. 16.

The finalists are selected from applicants and recognized in Harrisburg each fall.

Pennsylvania’s 2026 Teacher of the Year will be announced at a state awards ceremony in early December 2025 and will represent the Commonwealth at various local, regional and national functions culminating in the National Teacher of the Year ceremony at the White House.

Through the National State Teacher of the Year program, PDE identifies and honors exemplary teaching and classroom practices across the commonwealth.

NSTOY annually recognizes a professional who inspires students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn, who has the respect and admiration of students, parents and colleagues and who plays an active and useful role in both school and community.

The Teacher of the Year program is co-sponsored by PDE and the Pennsylvania chapter of the NSTOY, which was founded in 1995.

The 2025 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year will be announced at PDE’s SAS Institute Dec. 9.

Learn more about Pennsylvania’s Teacher of the Year program on PDE’s website at https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/education/programs-and-services/educators/recruitment-and-recognition/teacher-of-the-year.html.