Haverford Educator Named National Teacher of the Year

HAVERTOWN, PA — A Haverford High School teacher has been named the 2026 National Teacher of the Year, according to the Council of Chief State School Officers.

Leon Smith teaches AP U.S. history and AP African American studies. According to CCSSO, Smith emphasizes critical thinking, civic engagement and the inclusion of multiple perspectives in history.

The organization said he has more than two decades of experience as an educator, leader and mentor. He worked with the community, families and students to help bring the first AP African American studies course to Haverford.

Smith also connects students with the wider community through AP Advocacy Day. As part of that effort, he takes students to the Pennsylvania State Capitol to meet with AP scholars from across the state and local legislators to discuss the impact of AP courses on their lives. Through this opportunity, students ask policymakers questions, learn storytelling skills and build confidence in their communication abilities.

“There’s nothing like seeing a student gain confidence in themselves after receiving words of encouragement from you,” Smith said in a statement. “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.”

As the 2026 National Teacher of the Year, Smith will spend a year representing educators and serving as an ambassador for the teaching profession. CCSSO said he plans to use that year of service to recognize the role educators play in shaping the next generation.

“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 State Teachers of the Year. From that group, the National Teacher of the Year is chosen by an independent selection committee made up of representatives of national K-12 education organizations.

Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts in secondary social studies education from the University of Maryland, a Master of Education in instructional systems from Pennsylvania State University, and a PK–12 principal certification from Cabrini University, the CCSSO says. He has also coached freshman basketball for over 20 years.

Click here to learn more about Smith.