Arizona Educational Foundation Announces Top 15 Finalists for 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year

Arizona Teacher of the Year
April 20, 2026

PHOENIX, Ariz. — The Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF), in partnership with Desert Financial Credit Union, proudly announces the Top 15 candidates for the 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year Award—an extraordinary group of educators whose passion, innovation, and commitment are shaping the future of Arizona’s public schools.

Selected from a competitive pool of 155 nominated teachers statewide, these finalists represent the very best of the profession. Their stories of impact—inside classrooms and across communities—serve as a powerful reminder that great teachers don’t just educate; they inspire, uplift, and transform lives.

The 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year will be revealed live on stage at AEF’s Back to School Breakfast, a signature event designed to bring together educators, business leaders, and community champions in celebration of public education. The breakfast will take place on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix and will begin at 7:30 a.m.

This year marks the seventh consecutive year that Desert Financial has served as presenting sponsor of the Arizona Teacher of the Year Awards—and their inaugural year as presenting sponsor of the Back to School Breakfast—further deepening a shared commitment to honoring educators and investing in Arizona’s future.

Top 15 Candidates for 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year

 “Educators are the foundation of thriving communities, and at Desert Financial, our commitment to teachers is part of who we are,” said Jeff Meshey, President and CEO of Desert Financial. “As an organization founded by educators, supporting the Arizona Teacher of the Year program is a natural extension of our mission. We’re proud to stand alongside educators in the classroom and in their financial journeys as members. These outstanding nominees inspire us, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to recognize their incredible work.”

AEF has served as Arizona’s official state coordinator for the National Teacher of the Year program since 1983. The program reflects AEF’s mission to celebrate excellence and cultivate opportunity across the state’s public schools—ensuring that outstanding educators are recognized, supported, and elevated.

“Behind every thriving school and every confident student is a teacher who chose to show up, believe in them, and refuse to give up,” said Kim Graham, CEO of the Arizona Educational Foundation. “The Back to School Breakfast is more than an event—it’s a moment for our entire community to come together and say, ‘We see you. We value you. And we are better because of you.’ These finalists represent the very best of who we are as a state.”

For more information about the event, to sponsor, or purchase tickets, click here.

About AEF

Since 1983, the Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) has been at the frontlines of Arizona’s PreK–12 public education system celebrating excellence and addressing persistent challenges facing schools, educators, and students. Founded by former Arizona State Superintendent of Public Instruction Carolyn Warner, AEF is the state’s only education foundation charged with elevating Arizona education by showcasing schools and educators that exemplify best practices and to confront issues facing schools and educators. As such, our 11 statewide initiatives serve as beneficial interventions that help increase academic opportunities for schools, build leadership pipelines, support teacher retention, and expand opportunities for students and districts who too often go without. Public education is the heart of a community, and AEF remains focused on ensuring every student, in every community, has access to the resources, educators, and opportunities required to succeed. For more information visit www.azedfoundation.org or email info@azedfoundation.org.

About Desert Financial Credit Union

For over 85 years, Desert Financial has been Arizona’s most trusted local credit union with over $9 billion in assets, 500,000+ members and over 50 branches. Membership eligibility is open across Arizona with contactless solutions making it easy to click, call or come in. As a not-for-profit cooperative, Desert Financial takes pride in sharing success. In 2026, members received $16 million in dividends via the Member Giveback Bonus. Desert Financial is the official retail banking partner of Arizona State University® and the official banking partner of the Arizona Cardinals, NAU Athletics and the NAU Alumni Association. Federally insured by NCUA. Learn more at desertfinancial.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                  Media Contact: Melissa Kaszuba

April 20, 2026                                                                                  melissa@uriascommunications.com