Arizona Educational Foundation Announces Top 5 Finalists for 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year

Logo for
May 6, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                      Media Contact: Becky Antioco May 6, 2026                                                                                        becky@uriascommunications.com

PHOENIX, Ariz. —  The Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF), in partnership with Desert Financial Credit Union, proudly announces the Top 5 finalists for the 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year Award—an exceptional group of educators whose dedication, innovation, and impact 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 work extends far beyond the classroom—building confidence in students, strengthening school communities, and creating opportunities that last a lifetime.

The Top 5 finalists advanced through a rigorous selection process that included in-person interviews, lesson demonstrations, and impromptu speeches. One will be named the 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year, while the remaining finalists will serve as Ambassadors of Excellence, representing Arizona’s educators throughout the year.

The 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year Top 5 Finalists are:

The 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year will be announced at AEF’s Back to School Breakfast on Friday, August 7, 2026, in Phoenix. The event brings together educators, business leaders, and community partners to celebrate excellence in education and recognize those making a lasting impact across Arizona.

The selected Teacher of the Year will receive a comprehensive award package designed to honor their achievement and elevate their voice as an ambassador for education. This includes a $15,000 cash award, official recognition with a plaque and medal, and the opportunity to represent Arizona at the National Teacher of the Year Program. Additional experiences include travel to Washington, D.C. (pending each administration), International Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama, and national program induction events.

The honoree will also receive unique recognition opportunities such as throwing out the first pitch at an Arizona Diamondbacks game, participating in a Fiesta Bowl Experience Package and parade appearance, and being considered for an honorary doctorate from Northern Arizona University’s College of Education. Professional growth opportunities include support toward National Board Certification through the AZ K12 Center, as well as speech and media training. Classroom benefits and gifts—including student field trips, technology, and additional sponsor-provided items—round out this impactful award.

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 strengthening a shared commitment to supporting educators and students statewide.

 “Teachers are the heart of our communities, and at Desert Financial we are proud of our legacy as a credit union founded by educators,” said Jeff Meshey, President and CEO of Desert Financial. “Supporting the Arizona Teacher of the Year program reflects our commitment to giving back and supporting educators both in and beyond the classroom. These nominees inspire us, and we’re honored to celebrate their extraordinary impact.”

AEF has served as Arizona’s official state coordinator for the National Teacher of the Year program since 1983, reflecting its mission to celebrate excellence and expand opportunity across Arizona’s public schools.

“Each of these finalists represents the very best of Arizona education,” said Kim Graham, CEO of the Arizona Educational Foundation. “They lead with purpose, inspire their students every day, and remind us that great teaching changes lives. As we look ahead to the Back to School Breakfast, we are proud to celebrate their impact and the powerful role educators play in shaping the future of our state.”

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.