D2 Teacher Named CDE Teacher Of The Year Semifinalist (Photo) -06/05/25

NEWS RELEASE

 

June 5, 2025

 

Media contact:

Christine O’Brien, Chief Communications Officer

Cell: (719) 660-2033

cobrien@hsd2.org

Harrison School District 2

 

D2 Elementary Teacher, Emily Gaytan, Named Semifinalist for 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year

 

COLORADO SPRINGS – The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) announced 22 semifinalists for the 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year. One of those is Emily Gaytan, a D2 elementary teacher. The 22 semifinalists represent 22 schools from 17 districts and two charters. This group of semifinalists is the department’s most geographically diverse to date with at least two candidates from every region in Colorado.

 

For the past five years, Emily has been a dedicated and passionate educator at Centennial Elementary in D2. As a retired Army military police officer, she brings structure, discipline, and leadership to her classroom while ensuring every student feels valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

 

Emily is deeply committed to fostering literacy growth in young learners, using data-driven instruction and engaging strategies to build strong academic and social-emotional foundations. She also works tirelessly to connect the classroom with the community, collaborating with families and local organizations to enrich student learning.

 

Receiving this honor is a testament to her unwavering dedication to students, colleagues, and the Centennial Elementary community. Principal Kim Noyes says, “Emily Gaytan is living her purpose and always serves with a smile. She is mission-focused and willing to always go the extra mile!”

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For more information, please contact Christine O'Brien at the numbers listed above