Local teacher named top 10 finalist for major teaching award

BENTON, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Benton High School teacher Hanna Kairschner has been named one of 10 finalists nationwide for the Bill of Rights Institute’s National Civics Teacher of the Year Award for the 2025–2026 school year.

The honor recognizes educators who advance civics and history education in their classrooms. Kairschner was selected from a pool of nominees submitted by students, parents, educators, and community members across the country. She has more than a decade of teaching experience.

Each finalist receives a $1,000 award from the Bill of Rights Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting civic education. The winner will be announced in September and will receive a $5,000 prize.

Kairschner joins finalists from eight states and every region of the U.S. This year’s competition is sponsored by FileWave and TRUCE, companies that support education and student-focused technology initiatives.