Heather Boyer, a teacher in the Upper Dublin School District, is in the running to be named Pennsylvania’s 2027 Teacher of the Year.
Boyer has served the school district as both a high school science faculty member and athletic coach for over twenty years. In 2024, she was named the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association’s (PIAA) Softball Coach of the Year.
Boyer is one of 12 finalists, the winner of which will be announced at a state awards ceremony in early December 2026. The winner will then represent Pennsylvania at various local, regional, and national functions culminating in the National Teacher of the Year ceremony in Washington DC.
The other 11 finalists are:
- Jenna Anzelmo, Fleetwood Area School District, Berks County
- Heather Bain, Pennsbury School District, Bucks County
- Susan Barbe-Stas, Hempfield Area School District, Westmoreland County
- Samhita Basuthakur, Spring-Ford Area School District, Montgomery County
- Aliza Becker, Penn Manor School District, Lancaster County
- Kerrie Becker, Cornwall-Lebanon School District, Lebanon County
- Danina Garcia, School District of Philadelphia, Philadelphia County
- John Marc Murphy, Dover Area School District, York County
- Jonathan Rutledge, Westmont Hilltop School District, Cambria County
- Whitney Stiver, Central Susquehanna IU 16, Montour County
- Michelle Wood, Crestwood School District, Luzerne County
“The true impact of a great teacher is in the confidence they build, the curiosity they spark, and the resilience they help students realize,” said Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe. “These 12 finalists represent the very best in teaching. They create classrooms where students feel seen, challenged, and supported, and where learning is connected to real opportunities for the future. Their commitment is shaping stronger futures for students and communities across Pennsylvania.”
You can learn more about Pennsylvania’s Teacher of the Year program on PDE’s website.
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Photo: LinkedIn