Field Trip:

Commissioner’s Chat with Stephen Paulson, the 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year

Colorado Education Commissioner Susana Córdova recently sat down with 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year Stephen Paulson of Greeley Central High School for a Commissioner’s Chat highlighting the power and promise of public education. 

A 15-year educator who teaches AVID and AP Human Geography, Paulson shared how his work focuses on helping first-generation students see college and career pathways as attainable goals while building a strong sense of belonging in the classroom and the broader community.

During the conversation, Paulson emphasized that public schools open doors for every student and strengthen the communities they serve. He discussed his commitment to ensuring all students can access rigorous learning through strong supports and to creating opportunities that help students envision their futures. Paulson also underscored the importance of sharing positive stories about Colorado’s educators and students, noting that too often the successes happening in classrooms every day go untold.

As Colorado’s Teacher of the Year, Paulson said one of his top priorities is growing the next generation of educators by encouraging students to consider teaching as a meaningful and rewarding career. He called on educators and communities to elevate the profession and highlight its impact, reminding viewers that even making a difference for one student can be life-changing.