Madeline Loring Named 2026 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe today announced Madeline Loring, a dedicated educator from Jefferson-Morgan School District, as the 2026 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made at the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s (PDE) annual professional development conference, the SAS Institute convening.
“Educators – whether a teacher, a principal, or an administrator – do critical work each and every day to prepare our kids for the future,” Governor Shapiro stated. “A lot of the time, our teachers don’t get the credit or support you deserve despite having our students’ back every single day. I want Pennsylvania’s teachers to know that I have their backs, and will continue to build on the progress we’ve made together. I’m grateful for moments like today where we get to celebrate the work that teachers do every day.”
A Veteran Educator with a Passion for Student Success
Loring, a fourth grade teacher at Jefferson-Morgan Elementary School in Greene County, brings 13 years of experience to the role. Her teaching background is remarkably diverse, encompassing fourth grade mathematics, kindergarten instruction, and support for students in high school learning and life skills. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education with a minor in Political Science from Waynesburg University, alongside a Master’s degree in Administrative Leadership and a Library Science certification from California University of Pennsylvania.
Loring is recognized as an instructional leader who cultivates a classroom environment characterized by high expectations and encourages students to embrace intellectual risk-taking. Colleagues and students alike praise her genuine warmth and dedication to fostering both academic achievement and a love of learning. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she serves as the Drama Club Director, a member of the local Lion’s Club, and an active leader at St. Marcellus Church. She also mentors aspiring educators as a Student Teacher Facilitator through Penn West University and Waynesburg University, and provides professional development within her district for math department colleagues and intermediate unit specialists. Loring’s dedication was previously recognized when she was named Innovator of the Year at Jefferson-Morgan School District during the 2023-2024 school year.
“Educators have a lifelong impact on the learners they serve, inspiring them to dream big, think critically, and aspire to achieve—and this year’s Teacher of the Year finalists are collectively impacting thousands of young lives across the Commonwealth,” said Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe. “The 2026 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year, Madeline Loring, exemplifies exceptional dedication, service, and passion, and stands as a role model to her students and peers. The Shapiro Administration commends her on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to her future success.”
Recognizing Excellence in Pennsylvania Education
The Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year program, facilitated through the National Teacher of the Year (NTOY) Program, identifies and celebrates outstanding educators and classroom practices throughout the state. The NTOY program seeks to honor professionals who inspire students of all backgrounds, earn the respect of their peers and families, and actively contribute to both their schools and communities.
As Pennsylvania’s Teacher of the Year, Loring will embark on a statewide tour, collaborating with fellow educators and representing the Commonwealth in the 2027 National Teacher of the Year competition. The program, co-sponsored by PDE and the Pennsylvania chapter of the National State Teacher of the Year – founded in 1995 – highlights the vital role teachers play in shaping future generations.
This year’s pool of finalists included twelve exceptional educators: Whitney Bellomo, Nicole Birkbeck, Katherine Blandino-Nienhuis, Renee Decker, Jenna Love, Jennifer Nesser, Ashley Oldham, Andrea Rutledge, Rachel Sebastian, Rebecca Showalter, Elizabeth Troxell, and honoree Madeline Loring. A total of 523 nominations were submitted for the 2026 Teacher of the Year award, demonstrating the wealth of talent within Pennsylvania’s education system.
Building on Recent Successes
The announcement comes on the heels of other recent accolades for Pennsylvania educators. Leon Smith, a secondary teacher at Haverford High School, was named the 2025 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year last December and will represent the Commonwealth in the 2026 National Teacher of the Year competition. Furthermore, Ashlie Crosson, the 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year, achieved national recognition earlier this year by being named the 2025 National Teacher of the Year – a first for Pennsylvania.
The Shapiro Administration’s commitment to education is further underscored by the recently enacted 2025-26 state budget, which allocates over $900 million in increased education funding. This includes a $565 million increase in public school adequacy funding, $105 million for Basic Education Funding, and $40 million for Special Education Funding, alongside investments in school infrastructure and Pre-K education.
For more information on Pennsylvania’s Teacher of the Year program, visit the PDE website. Photos and video from the event are available at www.pacast.com. You can also follow PDE on Facebook, X, YouTube, and Pinterest for updates and resources.
