Gabriela Whitemarsh named Washington's 2026 Teacher of the Year; Maryan Abdow honored as top classified employee

Educators from across Washington state were recognized at Capital High School in Olympia during the annual Educator of the Year ceremony hosted by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The event brought together finalists, their families, and colleagues to celebrate outstanding contributions in education.

Gabriela Whitemarsh, a math teacher at Pasco High School in the Pasco School District and representing Educational School District 123, was named the 2026 State Teacher of the Year. Maryan Abdow, Quality Engagement Specialist for Secondary Education in the Tukwila School District and representing Puget Sound Educational Service District 121, received the title of 2025 State Classified School Employee of the Year.

Both Whitemarsh and Abdow will advance to national competitions. Whitemarsh is set to compete for National Teacher of the Year, while Abdow will vie for the Recognizing Inspirational School Employees (RISE) award.

“Each year, this event gives us the opportunity to recognize teachers and classified employees that represent the best of what our public schools do for their students,” said State Superintendent Chris Reykdal. “Gabriela helps students who are new to the U.S. continue to advance in math without allowing language to be a barrier, and Maryan connects students and their families with resources to support their basic needs so they can focus on learning. These educators are deeply committed to ensuring their students’ lifelong success, and I am honored to recognize them and our regional winners today.”

Whitemarsh has 18 years of experience in both college-level teaching and K–12 public schools. She established Pasco High’s Advanced Multilingual Mathematics Program in 2018, which provides pathways for newcomer students to enroll in advanced math courses as they develop English proficiency.

“Over the past eight years, she [Whitemarsh] has demonstrated her unwavering commitment to her students’ success and her ability to inspire a genuine love for mathematics in her classroom,” said Veronica Machado, Principal of Pasco High School. “Her creativity, collaboration with peers, and innovative approach to teaching have set her apart as a true leader in education."

In addition to teaching, Whitemarsh serves as Multilingual Department Chair and Bilingual Facilitator at Pasco High School. She mentors colleagues and current or former students and leads trainings on multilingual practices aimed at improving outcomes for these learners.

Abdow brings over ten years of experience supporting students facing homelessness or economic hardship as well as those in foster care. In her role with Tukwila schools, she connects families with services such as housing assistance and food security programs so that students can concentrate on academics. Abdow also works directly with high schoolers on postsecondary planning.

She leads Tukwila’s Parent Advisory Committee and started an annual Resource Fair linking families with vital support services. Additionally, she has trained district staff on McKinney-Vento legislation intended for homeless student support.

"At our middle school, Ms. Abdow works as a trusted advocate and support system for both students and their families," said Brett Christopher, Principal at Showalter Middle School. "Her presence and regular check ins with students provide stability and fosters hope for students facing uncertain living situations."

Outside her district work, Abdow serves as a Commissioner on Tukwila's Equity and Social Justice Commission where she advocates for equitable policies. As a former refugee herself, she emphasizes representation within education so that all backgrounds are reflected among educators.