Park City High teacher named Utah’s teacher of the year

PARK CITY, Utah (ABC4) — The Utah State Board of Education has named Utah’s 2026 Teacher of the Year as Joanna Andres of Park City High School.

On Thursday night, Sept. 4, Andres was recognized for her “exceptional ability to foster civic engagement, her leadership within the education community, and her profound and lasting impact on students,” according to a press release from the board.

A social studies teacher in her seventh year with Park City School District, Andres reportedly distinguished herself through innovative, student-centered approaches. Additionally, enrollment in the high school’s AP Government course has grown significantly under her teaching, the board said, with students achieving pass rates above state and national averages.

“Joanna embodies the very best of our profession—innovation, empathy, excellence, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student,” said Park City School District Superintendent Lyndsay Huntsman. “Her work has transformed classrooms, inspired colleagues, and elevated the learning experience for countless young people.”

According to the board, Andres cultivates an environment where students are comfortable asking tough questions, engaging in respectful debate on current events, and connecting history to their own lives. 

“Andres’ influence extends well beyond her classroom walls. She has served in numerous leadership roles, including Social Studies Department Chair, AP Department Chair, and PCEA Building Representative,” the board said. “Before her tenure at Park City High School, she pioneered a data-driven Response to Intervention (RTI) program at the Weilenmann School of Discovery, designing a multi-tiered support system to meet the diverse academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of students.”

Andres has a Master of Arts in Teaching from National University and endorsements including ESL and CTE Criminal Law. She is a fierce advocate for public education, the board said.

She was selected from a 15-member committee, comprised of delegates from multiple education agencies throughout Utah. As the 2026 Teacher of the Year, Andres will serve as an ambassador for the teaching profession, representing Utah in the National Teacher of the Year program.