Celebrating Arizona’s Teacher of the Year

Presented by Desert Financial

We are bringing one of Arizona’s most meaningful traditions into a bigger, brighter celebration of public education.

Join us on August 7, 2026, at Chateau Luxe for the Back to School Breakfast featuring the Arizona Teacher of the Year Awards, presented by Desert Financial Credit Union. This heartwarming morning brings together educators, community leaders, and partners who believe in public schools—and includes the exciting moment when the 2026 Arizona Teacher of the Year is announced.

Registration: 7:30–8:00 a.m.

Plated breakfast and program: Immediately following

For more than 40 years, AEF has proudly led the Arizona Teacher of the Year program in partnership with the National Teacher of the Year competition. After six years of Desert Financial sponsoring the standalone awards ceremony, we are expanding this event to also celebrate the businesses and organizations that support teachers and students every day.

The Back to School Breakfast is a meaningful opportunity for companies and community partners to show their support for public education as a new school year begins. Several sponsorship levels are available, including options with tabling.