Sherri Wright Board Member | Colorado Department of Education
The Colorado Department of Education has announced 22 semifinalists for the 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year award. These educators were chosen from a pool of 419 applicants across 106 school districts, marking a significant increase in participation compared to previous years. The semifinalists represent schools from 17 districts and two charter schools, making this group the most geographically diverse to date.
Education Commissioner Susana Córdova expressed pride in recognizing these educators, stating, “Each of these semifinalists has made a meaningful impact in their classrooms and communities, and we wish them all the best as they move forward in the selection process.”
The selection process involved a review committee comprising over 40 individuals, including past winners of the award, staff from the Colorado Department of Education, and representatives from the Boettcher Foundation. This foundation is also the lead sponsor of the program.
Tiffany Anderson, Vice President of Grants and Programs at the Boettcher Foundation, commented on the dedication required for great teaching: “We’re honored to serve as lead sponsor for a program that shines a spotlight on educators who are shaping Colorado’s future.”
The semifinalists will advance to further stages involving additional essay questions. Finalists will be announced in September with a winner named in October. The winner will represent Colorado's more than 55,000 educators at both state and national levels and will be nominated for the Council of Chief State School Officers’ National Teacher of the Year Program. They will also receive $5,000 courtesy of the Boettcher Foundation.
The Colorado Teacher of the Year program receives support through partnerships with organizations such as Adams State University and Blue Bell Ice Cream.
The department aims to create equitable educational environments where students and staff can thrive across Colorado's 178 school districts.
Alerts Sign-up