The Council of Chief State School Officers announced on April 21st that Leon Smith, an Upper Dublin native who is a Pennsylvania history teacher, had been named the 2026 National Teacher of the Year.
Smith has taught at Haverford High School for 25 years and currently teaches Advanced Placement United States history and Advanced Placement African American studies. In an interview with The Philadelphia Inquirer, it is mentioned that he attended Upper Dublin schools.
From the announcement:
Smith has more than two decades of experience as an educator, leader and mentor dedicated to empowering both students and teachers. His teaching is rooted in the belief that education has the power to transform lives and inspire students to achieve their highest potential. He strives to create an inclusive culture. For example, he engaged with the community, families and students to help bring the first-ever AP African American studies course to Haverford.
Smith is deliberate in connecting students with community. As part of AP Advocacy Day, Smith takes students to the Pennsylvania State Capitol to interact with AP scholars from all over the state and meet with their local legislators to share the impact of AP courses on their lives. Students engage with policymakers, asking questions and learning the basics of storytelling to build empathy and understanding. Through this opportunity, students gain confidence in their communication skills, helping them find success in securing job and internship interviews.
As the 2026 National Teacher of the Year, Smith will serve as an ambassador for teachers and the profession. For the next 12 months, Smith will highlight the pivotal role educators play in shaping the next generation.
“There’s nothing like seeing a student gain confidence in themselves after receiving words of encouragement from you,” said Smith. “Teaching is a journey where one discovers their voice in the classroom and who they are as educators. As you prepare to enter the classroom, remember that you are who your students need.”
“The National Teacher of the Year program celebrates the meaningful work and dedication of teachers who influence positive change in both the lives of their students and school communities,” said CCSSO Chief Executive Officer Carissa Moffat Miller. “We thank Leon for his profound contributions to education and congratulate him on this outstanding recognition.”
“Pennsylvania is honored to have, for the second year in a row, an educator from our great commonwealth named National Teacher of the Year,” said Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe. “Leon Smith is an exemplar of the excellent educators we have in schools across the state; educators who inspire, lead, encourage and shape the next generation of learners and global citizens.”
Each year, states, U.S. extra-state territories, the District of Columbia and the Department of War Education Activity select outstanding educators to serve as State Teachers of the Year. From that group, the National Teacher of the Year is chosen by an independent Selection Committee comprising representatives of national K-12 education organizations.
Smith was announced as the 2026 National Teacher of the Year on “CBS Mornings.” Smith, who coaches freshman basketball and grew up a big fan of Dr. J, was surprised when Dr. J took part in the segment. Watch below.