Greeley Central social studies teacher named finalist for 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year

A Greeley Central High School social studies teacher is one of eight finalists for the 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year.

Stephen Paulson was surprised with the news in his classroom Wednesday afternoon by state and district officials, including State Board of Education member Yasmin Navarro and Greeley-Evans District 6 Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch. Paulson was serenaded by the Greeley Central Drum Line and Cheer Team as he accepted a plaque, a $1,500 personal check from the Boettcher Foundation and a $500 check to be used by Greeley Central for staff recognition. 

Paulson is a 15-year veteran educator, teaching social studies and AVID at Greeley Central. Previously, he has won Greeley Central Teacher of the Year (2024) and Greeley-Evans School District Teacher of the Year (2021) awards.

In June, Paulson was named as one of 22 semifinalists for Teacher of the Year, which were selected from 419 applicants. The recipient of the 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year will be named in October.

“Stephen is dedicated to opening doors of opportunity for his students,” said State Commissioner of Education Susana Cordova said. “Through his work in social studies and AVID, he is empowering first-generation students to see new possibilities for their future.”

Paulson holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from University of Northern Colorado and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Colorado State University.

“Stephen Paulson is one of the finest educators I have worked with in my 38 years in public education,” Pilch said. “He is devoted to ensuring that every student learns and is engaged in their education. He recognizes the potential in all students, and works to help them reach their goals. He is an advocate for his students and other educators, he is devoted to his profession and he goes above and beyond to support his school and district.”

Colorado’s 2026 Teacher of the Year represents the state’s 55,000-plus educators at the state and national levels and will become Colorado’s nominee for the Council of Chief State School Officers’ National Teacher of the Year Program, be honored at a special ceremony in Washington, D.C. and receive $5,000 courtesy of the Boettcher Foundation.