Missouri Teacher of the Year Semifinalists Announced

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - A local educator is among 16 semifinalists being considered for the 2027 Missouri Teacher of the Year award.

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has announced the semifinalists, highlighting educators who have made a significant impact on students and communities across the state. Among the semifinalists is Christine Logan Hollis, a seventh- and eighth-grade science teacher at Kingston K-14 Middle School.

The Missouri Teacher of the Year program recognizes outstanding educators for their contributions to their students, schools and communities. The selection process began with the naming of 35 Regional Teachers of the Year from Missouri's nine Regional Professional Development Center areas and the Southwest Center for Educational Excellence.

The 16 semifinalists were selected from those regional honorees. Candidates for Missouri Teacher of the Year may be nominated by members of the public or by local education agencies. The semifinalists represent a variety of grade levels, subject areas and regions throughout Missouri.

A committee of education professionals will now review additional materials submitted by the semifinalists before selecting the finalists.

DESE plans to announce the 2027 Missouri Teacher of the Year finalists at the end of August.

The educator ultimately selected as Missouri Teacher of the Year will represent Missouri in the national Teacher of the Year program.