Stephen Paulson, a social studies teacher at Greeley Central High School, has been named the 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made during a surprise assembly attended by more than 100 students, teachers, and staff. The event included representatives from the Colorado Department of Education, State Board of Education Chair Rebecca McClellan, Vice Chair Yazmin Navarro, board member Kathy Gebhardt, Commissioner Susana Córdova, Greeley-Evans School District 6 Superintendent Deirdre Pilch, and Boettcher Foundation Vice President Tiffany Anderson.
“The Teacher of the Year award celebrates all Colorado educators who devote themselves to helping students learn and thrive,” said McClellan. “Mr. Paulson is an example of the dedication we see in classrooms across the state, where teachers inspire possibility and open doors for the next generation. The State Board of Education congratulates Mr. Paulson and thanks all of our teachers for their extraordinary service.”
Córdova added: “Mr. Paulson brings heart and purpose to his classroom every day. His commitment shows how great teaching can open doors for students and strengthen communities across Colorado. We are proud to honor him as the 2026 Teacher of the Year.”
Paulson has taught in Greeley-Evans School District 6 for 15 years and holds degrees from the University of Northern Colorado and Colorado State University.
“This is the first-ever Colorado Teacher of the Year for Greeley-Evans School District 6, and the selection team couldn’t have picked a more deserving educator. We are so proud of Stephen and all the educators in District 6 who work so hard every day to serve our students and families. This is an honor for not only Stephen, but for Greeley Central, District 6 and our entire community,” said Superintendent Pilch.
In September, Paulson was named one of eight finalists out of a record 419 applicants representing 109 districts—a significant increase in applications compared to previous years. As part of that recognition, he received $1,500 from CDE and the Boettcher Foundation; his school received $500 from Boettcher.
As this year’s honoree, Paulson will receive $5,000 from the Boettcher Foundation as well as $5,000 in funding from CDE to support Teacher of the Year events through 2026. He will also be awarded continuing education credit and a student scholarship from Adams State University.
“Stephen is the kind of educator who changes the trajectory of students’ lives. His ability to make every student feel seen and capable is extraordinary, and we celebrate the lasting impact he is making across Colorado,” said Anderson.
Following Thursday’s announcement, students and staff enjoyed ice cream provided by Blue Bell Creameries.
Paulson will now represent Colorado as its candidate for the Council of Chief State School Officers’ National Teacher of the Year Award. He will participate in national program activities in Washington D.C., as well as attend NASA’s Space Camp. His term begins January 2026.
A letter submitted by student Rodrigo Garcia stated: “He pushes us not because he has to, but because he believes and has even more faith in us than we have in ourselves. … Mr. Paulson isn’t only preparing us for the next grade level, but for life. We will forever be grateful for him.”
The Colorado Teacher of the Year program is sponsored by Boettcher Foundation with support from partners including CEA (Colorado Education Association), Adams State University, and Blue Bell Creameries.
