The Colorado Department of Education invites residents statewide to nominate exceptional public schoolteachers for the 2027 Colorado Teacher of the Year award, which honors educators who make an impact on their students, schools and communities.
Students, parents, colleagues and community members may submit nominations, and individuals may nominate more than one teacher. The nomination period closes March 20.
After nominations close, selected nominees will be asked to apply. The application window opens March 2 and closes April 13. CDE plans to offer virtual office hours for applicants. The department will name semifinalists May 22, announce finalists in early September and select the state winner in the fall.
Nominees must teach in state‑accredited K‑12 public schools and continue teaching during the 2027–28 school year.
Education Commissioner Susana Córdova encouraged Coloradans to highlight educators making a difference.
“We are excited to open nominations and invite Coloradans to recognize the educators making a difference across our state,” she said.
Stephen Paulson, the 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year from Greeley Central High School, described the honor as “tremendous.”m He said the experience “uplifted me in meaningful ways.”
The program is sponsored by the Boettcher Foundation with support from the Colorado Education Association, Adams State University, Blue Bell Ice Cream and Colorado PTA.
Tiffany Anderson, vice president of grants and programs at the Boettcher Foundation, encouraged Coloradans to honor educators whose work stands out.
“Teachers have a profound impact on students and communities, and this program is an important way to honor that work,” Anderson said. “We encourage Coloradans to nominate a teacher who has made a meaningful difference.”
Nominations and information are available on the Colorado Teacher of the Year website at www.ed.cde.state.co.us/cdeawards/teacheroftheyear.
