Teacher of the Year award goes to Pennsylvania history instructor

A high school history teacher in Pennsylvania who helps students look inward to find their strengths and outward to find community has been named the 2026 National Teacher of the Year.

Forty-six-year-old Leon Smith has spent his entire 25-year career at Haverford High School, where he teaches Advanced Placement classes in U.S. history and African American studies.

He describes himself as a “warm demander,” someone who sets high expectations while surrounding students with love and support.

Smith says he is particularly passionate about recognizing hidden talents in his students, and he hopes to spend the next year highlighting the pivotal role teachers have played in shaping society.