Murray State Alumna Competes for America's Favorite Teacher

Sara Morgan, a first-year elementary teacher, advances to Top 20 in national competition.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:15am

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A Murray State University graduate, Sara Morgan, is competing in the America's Favorite Teacher competition just one year into her teaching career. Morgan, who has dyslexia, has advanced to the Top 20 round, which opens public voting on Monday and runs through April 2. She credits her personal experience and advocacy work for shaping her inclusive classroom approach.

Why it matters

The nomination reflects Morgan's commitment to being a lifelong learner and creating a more inclusive environment where every student's potential is celebrated. Her story highlights the value of teachers who openly share their own learning differences to build empathy and understanding in the classroom.

The details

Morgan, a 2025 elementary education alumna, has been nominated for the America's Favorite Teacher competition. She will compete through successive rounds of public voting, with the 2026 winner announced in June. Morgan speaks openly about her dyslexia diagnosis with students, framing it as a unique perspective rather than an obstacle. She also brings experience from her decade-long involvement with Best Buddies, an international nonprofit supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

  • The Top 20 round of voting opens on Monday, March 17, 2026 and runs through April 2, 2026.
  • The finals of the America's Favorite Teacher competition will conclude in May 2026.
  • The 2026 America's Favorite Teacher will be announced in June 2026.

The players

Sara Morgan

A 2025 elementary education alumna from Murray State University's College of Education and Human Services who is competing in the America's Favorite Teacher competition.

Murray State University

The university where Sara Morgan graduated from the College of Education and Human Services.

Best Buddies

An international nonprofit organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, which Morgan has been involved with for nine years.

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What they’re saying

“Being recognized on a national stage is an incredible honor. Whether I make it to the final rounds or not, it is meaningful to have my story reach such a wide audience.”

— Sara Morgan

“We talk about how everyone has their own mix of strengths and weaknesses, and that just because something may be a challenge doesn't mean they aren't smart.”

— Sara Morgan

“This personal experience has shaped how I support my students by helping me build a classroom community where they feel safe and supported.”

— Sara Morgan

“Although I am a first-year teacher, I have grown exponentially since my first few months in the classroom. This recognition reflects my commitment to being a lifelong learner.”

— Sara Morgan

“My dyslexia allows me to see the world from a unique perspective. I want to help create a more inclusive world where every individual is celebrated and their potential is never underestimated.”

— Sara Morgan

What’s next

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The takeaway

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