Teachers of Tomorrow Announces 2026 Texas Teacher of the Year and National Finalist
Lyford, Texas – Teachers of Tomorrow, the nation’s top alternative teacher certification, is proud to announce Lauren Thomas as the Texas Teachers of Tomorrow Teacher of the Year, recognizing their exceptional commitment to students, classrooms, and school communities.
Thomas serves as High School Agriculture Science teacher at Lyford High School in Lyford CISD. As part of this recognition, Thomas will receive $500 to support classroom needs, along with free professional development through SimpleK12.
Teachers shape the future every day, often in ways that extend far beyond the classroom,” said Dr. Heath Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of Teachers of Tomorrow and a former superintendent. “Our Teacher of the Year program is one way we celebrate educators whose dedication, skill, and commitment are making a lasting difference for students and communities. Congratulations to Lauren Thomas on this well-deserved recognition of your dedication and impact.”
In addition to earning the state title, Thomas has been named a finalist for the Teachers of Tomorrow National Teacher of the Year award. The national honoree will be selected through a public voting process, open from April 20 to April 27, 2026. To vote, visit: https://www.
The National Teacher of the Year will receive $5,000 for classroom needs and one year of free professional development.
About the Honoree
Lauren Thomas creates hands-on, real-world learning opportunities that help students see themselves as capable leaders and problem-solvers in agriculture and beyond. In the classroom and through FFA, she emphasizes showing up with energy and encouragement, helping students build confidence, take initiative, and celebrate small wins. Her approach connects rigorous instruction to authentic experiences that expand students’ horizons and deepen engagement.
“Every single day, we have a choice,” said Thomas. “We can walk into our classrooms and go through the motions to get through the day, or we can walk in and make a positive difference in the lives of our students. Being a teacher is so much more than teaching curriculum. It’s about celebrating the small wins, supporting our students, and helping them grow into positive pillars of society. All of these moments remind me daily why I chose to teach agriculture.”
About Texas Teachers of Tomorrow
Texas Teachers of Tomorrow is the state’s largest Educator Preparation Provider (EPP), fully accredited by both the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). As the flagship program of Teachers of Tomorrow, it has supported Texas school districts for over two decades by preparing well-qualified educators committed to student success. Teachers of Tomorrow has certified over 90,000 teachers nationwide since 2005 and awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships to aspiring educators. Texas Teachers of Tomorrow is part of The Rise Fund portfolio—a global impact investment fund focused on driving positive social and environmental progress. Learn more at www.teachersoftomorrow.org/