Mississippi Names 2026 Administrator and Teacher of the Year

Sumner Hill Junior High principal and Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science teacher honored

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:26pm

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A vibrant, high-contrast silkscreen print of a single school object such as a pencil or apple, repeated in a grid pattern with bold neon colors and heavy black outlines, conceptually representing the impact of exceptional educators.The annual celebration of Mississippi's top educators highlights the vital role of inspirational teachers and administrators in shaping the future of the state.Jackson Today

The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) has announced the 2026 Mississippi Administrator of the Year is Dr. Matthew Fulton, principal at Sumner Hill Junior High School in the Clinton Public School District, and the 2026 Mississippi Teacher of the Year is Lauren Zarandona, a teacher at Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science.

Why it matters

The annual awards recognize exceptional educators who inspire students, demonstrate leadership, and serve as active members of their communities. The winners will receive a $5,000 stipend and represent Mississippi in statewide and national programs to share their expertise.

The details

The MDE program celebrated top administrators and teachers from school districts across the state. Fulton and Zarandona were selected for their superior abilities to inspire others, employ exemplary leadership, and actively participate in their communities. Fulton described his philosophy of 'continuous service' and 'selfless commitment to student growth,' while Zarandona emphasized the importance of teaching students 'how to think' over 'what to think'.

  • The 2026 Mississippi Administrator of the Year and Teacher of the Year were announced on April 17, 2026.

The players

Dr. Matthew Fulton

The 2026 Mississippi Administrator of the Year and principal at Sumner Hill Junior High School in the Clinton Public School District.

Lauren Zarandona

The 2026 Mississippi Teacher of the Year and a teacher at the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science.

Kristina Carter

The 2026 Mississippi Parent of the Year, a mother of four with three students in the Natchez-Adams School District.

Stephanie Shirley

The alternate 2026 Mississippi Administrator of the Year and principal at Clarkdale High School in the Lauderdale County School District.

Cody Eadie

The alternate 2026 Mississippi Teacher of the Year and a teacher at Harrison Central High School in the Harrison County School District.

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What they’re saying

“Education is an act of continuous service in which educators do not serve self but consider the needs of others more significant than their own. The God-given dignity and boundless potential of every learner compel a selfless and steadfast commitment to student growth. The fruit of such service and dedication is the future of our society.”

— Dr. Matthew Fulton, Principal, Sumner Hill Junior High School

“Learning is more than getting a correct answer or knowing the right information. Learning must lead to understanding for all students; teaching them how to think is far more important than teaching them what to think.”

— Lauren Zarandona, Teacher, Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science

What’s next

The 2026 Mississippi Administrator of the Year and Teacher of the Year will represent the state in national competitions and share their expertise through various presentations and activities.

The takeaway

The annual MDE awards highlight the critical role of exceptional educators in inspiring students, demonstrating leadership, and serving their communities. The 2026 honorees exemplify the values of selfless service, student-centered teaching, and a commitment to helping all learners reach their full potential.