Evergreen Special Education Teacher Named Top Educator
The veteran teacher will represent Montana in the National Teacher of the Year program in 2027.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Special Education
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The Montana Office of Public Instruction has selected Kenny Ross, a special education teacher at Evergreen Junior High, as the 2027 Montana Teacher of the Year. Ross, who has a 30-year teaching career, was chosen from a field of four finalists to represent the state in the upcoming national program.
Why it matters
This recognition highlights the importance of dedicated support for students with diverse learning needs in Montana schools. The selection acknowledges Ross's long-standing commitment to building essential student skills within the state's education system.
Kenny Ross, a special education teacher with 30 years of experience, was selected as the 2027 Montana Teacher of the Year from a pool of four finalists. He is currently in his third year at Evergreen Junior High.
The players
Kenny Ross
A veteran educator with a 30-year career currently teaching special education at Evergreen Junior High.
Montana Office of Public Instruction
The state agency responsible for overseeing Montana's education system and facilitating the annual teacher recognition program.
Laurie Barron
The Evergreen School District Superintendent who formally nominated Ross for the state award.
The details
The selection process required candidates to submit a written essay and three letters of recommendation to the Montana Office of Public Instruction. Finalists then underwent a formal interview process with a four-member panel to determine the state's representative. Ross was recognized for his specific approach to supporting students with diverse learning needs and fostering their academic development.
Timeline
October 9, 2026: Ross participated in an interview with a selection panel.
October 13, 2026: Ross received notification of his award.
March 2027: Ross begins his official state ambassador duties.
2027: Ross will represent Montana in the National Teacher of the Year program.
The Home Front
The selection of a state teacher of the year is part of a broader national framework that spotlights excellence in public education. This process mirrors established state-level practices for recognizing career-long contributions to student success.
Families with students at Evergreen Junior High can look forward to the state-level representation Ross will provide starting in 2027. Parents should keep an eye on school newsletters for information on how this ambassador role may influence future special education initiatives.
The takeaway
This award marks a significant milestone in a 30-year career dedicated to special education. Families interested in state education trends can track the progress of the National Teacher of the Year program throughout 2027.
Further reading
For more on educational advocacy, see Special Education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Daily Inter Lake.
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