Image courtesy KSDE

Rachel Marlow, a music educator at Central Elementary in Olathe USD 233, has been named the 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made on September 20 at the Kansas Teacher of the Year Banquet in Wichita, which was attended by more than 370 educators, business leaders, and guests.

Marlow was chosen from a group of eight finalists and a pool of over 126 nominations. Over the coming year, she and the other finalists will travel and work together to advocate for Kansas education and the teaching profession. The 2026 finalist team also includes teachers from Quinter, Republic County, Topeka, Santa Fe Trail, Kansas City, Derby, and Hesston.

Marlow’s teaching experience spans special education, general music, vocal, and instrumental instruction. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Oklahoma City University and a master’s in special education from MidAmerica Nazarene University. Colleagues praised her dedication, collaborative spirit, and ability to create inclusive, engaging musical experiences for students.

As part of her award, Marlow received a $4,000 cash prize, a Kansas Teacher of the Year Lifelong Learning Scholarship, an ambassadorship covering travel expenses, a rental car for related travel, and a Leader in Education ring. She also becomes a candidate for National Teacher of the Year.

The Kansas Teacher of the Year program is sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education, while the National Teacher of the Year program is presented by Voya Financial through the Council of Chief State School Officers.