Elizabeth Anstine, a business teacher at Leavenworth High School in Leavenworth Unified School District 453, was honored as the 2025 Kansas Teacher of the Year on Saturday, Sept. 28, during a ceremony in Wichita. Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson made the announcement at the event attended by over 300 educators and business representatives.

Anstine highlighted the “practice of deliberate reflection” as a core part of her teaching philosophy. Selected from eight finalists, she will spend the next year working and traveling with the other finalists to advocate for Kansas education and the teaching profession.

Anstine, a business marketing, entrepreneurship, and finance teacher at Leavenworth High School for 12 years, is recognized for her leadership and mentoring. With a background in corporate marketing and volunteer work, she earned degrees from Fort Hays State University and the University of Kansas. Stacey Cole, associate principal, praised Anstine for transforming the school’s business and marketing program.

She was awarded $4,000 by Steven Strobel of Security Benefit Corp. and will receive a Kansas Teacher of the Year Lifelong Learning Scholarship for free education. Anstine will also receive the Kansas Teacher of the Year Ambassadorship for travel and related expenses.

As the Kansas Teacher of the Year, Elizabeth Anstine is now in the running for the National Teacher of the Year award.

“As both a contemplative individual and educator, I consider this to be one of my most valuable attributes,” said Anstine. “I dedicate time to carefully assess my teaching methods and classroom practices, evaluating what is effective and where adjustments are needed to enhance the overall learning experience for my students.”