Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders announces 2026 Arkansas Teacher of the Year

BENTON, Ark. – Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced the 2026 Arkansas Teacher of the Year Tuesday morning.

Sanders visited Mountain View Elementary School in the Benton School District to announce Stephanie Williams as the teacher of the year.

“Behind every successful student is an exceptional teacher who goes above and beyond in the classroom – and this year’s Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Stephanie Williams, is a great example of that ideal,” Sanders said. “She doesn’t just want her students to succeed; she strives to make learning fun and expand their curiosity, so they never stop growing. Arkansas is better because of educators like her who put our students first. Congratulations, Stephanie!”

Williams is a music teacher at Mountain View Elementary School.

In addition to the announcement, Sanders and Arkansas Department of Education secretary Jacob Oliva presented Williams with a $14,000 reward.

“We are excited to have Ms. Williams represent Arkansas as our 2026 Teacher of the Year,” Oliva said. “It is clear her creativity and ingenuity create an environment where her students thrive. While she teaches music, she weaves in problem-solving skills and concepts that help students build real-world connections. She is proven to be a high-caliber educator and will make a great ambassador for education in our state.”

Williams has been in education for 16 years. She began as a middle school band director and transitioned to an elementary music teacher in 2023.

She has many accolades, including being a Master Professional Educator and the 2025 Teacher of the Year.

Williams’ one-year tenure as Arkansas Teacher of the Year will begin on July 1, 2026. During the time, she will travel the state promoting the teaching profession and serve as a non-voting member on the State Board of Education.