Wichita Public Schools announces the 2026 Distinguished Classroom Teacher Award recipients in their respective categories. The recipients were surprised at their schools by BOE members, district leadership and family members. Photos of the recipients are included.
- Sydney Nelson, vocal music teacher at Cessna Elementary – New Teacher, Elementary category
- Hannah Copeland, strings teacher at Curtis Middle School – New Teacher, Secondary category
- Stephany Mendez Castaneda, hearing impaired teacher at Caldwell Elementary School – Primary (Grades PreK – 2) category
- Gianna Wilson, 3rd grade teacher at Enterprise Elementary School – Intermediate (Grades 3 – 5) category
- Rachel Wysong, math teacher at Wilbur Middle School – Middle School Category
- Aaron Haselwood, construction teacher at East High School – High School Teacher category
- Braden Mayes, psychologist at Isely Traditional Magnet K8 School – Elementary Support category
- Danea Cramer, counselor at Chester Lewis Academic Learning Center, – Secondary Support category
The Distinguished Classroom Teacher Awards program honors outstanding teachers who affect the quality of education in the Wichita Public Schools. Peers, building administrators and/or parents nominated each of the recipients. A committee consisting of principals, assistant principals, teachers, support staff, WPS administration and a member of United Teachers of Wichita selects the final recipients.
