Honorees recognized for dedication to students, colleagues, and community
MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, in partnership with The Herb Kohl Educational Foundation, is proud to announce the five educators selected as 2026 Wisconsin Teachers of the Year. These exceptional educators were surprised with the news by State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly during surprise ceremonies at their schools, where they were joined by students, colleagues, family, and friends.
“It is a privilege to recognize these five extraordinary educators as our 2026 Wisconsin Teachers of the Year,” Dr. Underly said. “Their dedication to their students, colleagues, and communities is a true testament to the power of education. Each one of these educators has made an astounding impact, not only in their classrooms, but across the entire school community. It was an honor to celebrate them in the company of those whose lives they’ve touched, as we acknowledge and celebrate their passion, commitment and leadership. These teachers are shining examples of excellence, and I am incredibly proud to call them our 2026 Wisconsin Teachers of the Year.”
The 2026 Wisconsin Teachers of the Year are:
- Mark Acherman, science teacher at Darlington Elementary/Middle School (Darlington Community School District)
- Joel Coyne, business education teacher at Sun Prairie East High School (Sun Prairie Area School District)
- Megan Dixon, second grade teacher at Glenwood Elementary School (School District of Greenfield)
- Toni Fink, second grade teacher at Milwaukee Spanish Immersion School (Milwaukee Public Schools)
- Lisa Van Hefty, special education teacher at O.H. Schultz Elementary School (School District of Mishicot)
Photos and videos from each surprise ceremony can be found on the DPI’s Facebook page.
As part of their recognition, each Teacher of the Year will receive a $3,000 award from the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation. One of the five educators will also be selected through an interview process to represent Wisconsin in the Council of Chief State School Officers’ National Teacher of the Year Program. More information on the Wisconsin Teacher of the Year Program can be found on the DPI’s website.
Additional background information on each 2026 Wisconsin Teacher of the Year is below:
Mark Acherman, science teacher at Darlington Elementary/Middle School (Darlington Community School District)
Acherman has taught in Darlington since 1994 and is known for his hands-on approach to science education, incorporating field trips, guest speakers, and community partnerships. He also coaches youth and school sports, advises STEM clubs, and helped found the Jim Huston Nature Trail – an outdoor classroom that connects students and the community to nature and science.
Joel Coyne, business education teacher at Sun Prairie East High School (Sun Prairie Area School District)
Coyne leads both the Business Leadership Academy and the Sports, Entertainment, and Tourism Marketing Academy at Sun Prairie East. Through his work with Sun Prairie’s Business Education Partnership, he has built strong relationships with local businesses and organizations to enhance learning and create leadership opportunities for students to make a difference in their community.
Megan Dixon, second grade teacher at Glenwood Elementary School (School District of Greenfield)
Dixon has taught second grade at Glenwood Elementary in the School District of Greenfield for the past 13 years. Known for her passion, advocacy, and leadership, she is deeply committed to empowering both students and fellow educators. Dixon creates academically rich and inclusive classrooms that nurture creativity, curiosity, and kindness. She also holds leadership roles at the district, community, and state levels.
Toni Fink, second grade teacher at Milwaukee Spanish Immersion School (Milwaukee Public Schools)
Fink has been a classroom teacher in second and fifth grades at Milwaukee Spanish Immersion School in Milwaukee Public Schools for over 25 years. As a key member of the school’s leadership team, she is credited for developing school-wide instructional strategies that focus on enhancing academic and social emotional practices in the classroom. Her dedication to creating and maintaining meaningful relationships with students and families has impacted the lives of so many.
Lisa Van Hefty, special education teacher at O.H. Schultz Elementary School (School District of Mishicot)
Van Hefty has dedicated the past 27 years to serving as a special education teacher at O.H. Schultz Elementary School in the School District of Mishicot. Throughout her career, she has been a champion for inclusive education and student advocacy, building strong, meaningful connections with her students, families, and colleagues. Van Hefty is widely recognized for creating nurturing, student-centered learning environments that foster growth, independence, and confidence.
