Stephen Paulson, a social studies teacher at Greeley Central High School in Greeley-Evans School District 6, has been named the 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made during a surprise assembly attended by over 100 students, teachers, and staff.
The award was presented by Colorado State Board of Education Chair Rebecca McClellan, Vice Chair Yazmin Navarro, State Board Member Kathy Gebhardt, Colorado Education Commissioner Susana Córdova, Greeley-Evans School District 6 Superintendent Deirdre Pilch, and Boettcher Foundation Vice President of Grants and Awards 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 stated: “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 at Greeley-Evans for 15 years. He holds a degree from the University of Northern Colorado and a master’s in educational leadership from Colorado State University.
Superintendent Pilch said: “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.”
In September, representatives from the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) and the Boettcher Foundation visited Paulson’s classroom to announce he was one of eight state finalists. At that time, Paulson received $1,500 from CDE and the Boettcher Foundation, while Greeley Central High School was awarded $500 from the Boettcher Foundation.
As Colorado’s 2026 Teacher of the Year, Paulson will receive a $5,000 gift from the Boettcher Foundation, $5,000 in funding from CDE to support Teacher of the Year events through 2026, as well as continuing education credit and a student scholarship from Adams State University.
Anderson said: “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.”
Representatives from the Greeley-Evans Board of Education, Colorado Education Association (CEA), Adams State University, and Blue Bell Creameries also attended the event. After the announcement, students and staff enjoyed ice cream provided by Blue Bell Creameries.
Paulson will now be Colorado’s 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., and attend NASA’s Space Camp. His term as Colorado Teacher of the Year begins in 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.”
This year saw a record number of applicants for Colorado Teacher of the Year, with 419 applicants representing 109 districts. From these, 22 semifinalists were announced in June, with eight finalists selected—a significant increase in applications compared to previous years.
The Colorado Teacher of the Year program is sponsored by the Boettcher Foundation with support from partners including CEA, Adams State University, and Blue Bell Creameries. More information about the program can be found on its webpage.
Paulson’s work at Greeley Central High School includes leading the AVID program, guiding first-generation students toward college, creating a Career Mentor Project that connects students with local professionals, and launching service initiatives such as “Castle Clean Up.” Earlier in his career, he helped introduce Mexican American Studies at Greeley West High School. His approach centers on supporting diverse students and fostering opportunities for their success.
The Colorado Department of Education aims to create equitable educational environments for all students and staff in Colorado by improving student outcomes and ensuring access to high-quality schools across its districts.
