The classroom teacher is the backbone of the American education system. To recognize and celebrate excellent teachers, the Arkansas Department of Education coordinates the Arkansas Teacher of the Year program. The ATOY program is part of the National Teacher of the Year (NTOY) program that is coordinated by the Council of Chief State School Officers.

Benton Educator Named 2026 Arkansas Teacher of the Year

Stephanie Williams, a music teacher at Mountain View Elementary School in the Benton School District, was named the 2026 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. Williams was surprised during a school-wide assembly when Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Jacob Oliva made the announcement. Williams has been in education for 16 years, teaching music at both elementary and secondary levels. She began as a middle school band director, but transitioned to her current role as an elementary music teacher in 2023. She is known for designing cross-curricular lessons, integrating subjects like science and social studies into the arts. Her intentional use of music as an intervention tool ensures students receive extra support while having fun.

Full Press Release

For more information, please contact: