From inspiring curiosity in the classroom to changing the trajectory of students’ lives, six outstanding educators have been named finalists for the 2026 Coconino County Teacher of the Year and Rookie Teacher of the Year awards.
Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget proudly recognizes these exceptional teachers for their passion, innovation and unwavering commitment to students and their communities.
The winners will be revealed at the 13th Annual Coconino County Teacher of the Year Awards on Thursday, April 9 at 5 p.m. at the High Country Conference Center in Flagstaff — an evening dedicated to celebrating the educators who make a lasting difference in the lives of Coconino County students.
The finalists for Teacher of the Year are:
- Adrian Alvarez, Grand Canyon School
- Logan Brumm, Flagstaff High School
- Kevin English, Williams High School
The finalists for Rookie Teacher of the Year are:
- Jade Crowley, Cromer Elementary School
- Danielle Marinelli, Flagstaff High School
- Gabrielle Neilson, Flagstaff High School
Selected from a competitive pool of 42 nominated educators, these finalists represent the very best of Coconino County’s Pre-K through 12th-grade teaching profession — leaders who spark creativity, build strong relationships and create meaningful learning experiences for every student they serve.
“Great teachers change the trajectory of students’ lives and strengthen the future of our communities,” Mango-Paget said. “These finalists represent the very best of Coconino County — educators who lead with heart, inspire excellence and make every student feel seen and valued. Recognizing their work is essential, because when we celebrate outstanding teaching, we elevate the entire profession and the promise of public education.”
During the awards ceremony, the Coconino County Teacher of the Year, Coconino County Rookie Teacher of the Year, the Lifetime Achievement award recipient and the Ambassadors for Excellence (runners-up) will be honored. Each finalist will receive cash prizes, an automatic nomination for the Arizona Teacher of the Year Award and additional recognitions celebrating their achievements.
The Coconino County Teacher of the Year will also receive a one-year leased vehicle, generously provided by Findlay Toyota Flagstaff.
A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award, a surprise honor bestowed by the Superintendent of Schools to recognize an individual whose career has made a profound and lasting impact on education in Coconino County.
This extraordinary event is made possible through the generous support of local businesses and community members. Special thanks to our Lead Recognition Sponsor and Teacher of the Year Sponsor, Findlay Toyota Flagstaff and our Rookie Teacher of the Year Sponsor, APS. We also extend our gratitude to our Honor Society-level sponsors, including the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, Northern Arizona Healthcare, NARBHA, Stone Canyon Media, Coconino Community College, NAU College of Education, and CAVIAT. A full list of sponsors is available at coconino.az.gov/3154/Coconino-County-Teacher-of-the-Year.
For more details, please contact Stacy Fobar, Program Coordinator, at sfobar@coconino.az.gov or 928-679-8070.