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Owasso Today
By the People, for the People
Oklahoma Educators Named State Teacher of the Year Finalists
Finalists from Tulsa, Owasso, and Bartlesville school districts recognized for excellence.
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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Three educators from Green Country school districts - Keely Flynn of Tulsa Public Schools, Liz Reed of Owasso Public Schools, and LeeAnn Pressler of Bartlesville Public Schools - have been named as finalists for the Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year award, the state Department of Education announced on Wednesday.
Why it matters
The Oklahoma Teacher of the Year program honors exceptional educators who demonstrate excellence in the classroom and leadership in their communities. Being named a finalist is a prestigious recognition that highlights the quality of teaching in northeastern Oklahoma school districts.
The details
The three finalists were selected from a pool of district-level Teachers of the Year across the state. They will now advance to the final round of the statewide competition, where a winner will be announced later this year. The Oklahoma Teacher of the Year serves as an ambassador for the teaching profession, making public appearances and speaking engagements throughout their term.
- The finalists were announced on February 12, 2026 by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
The players
Keely Flynn
A teacher at Tulsa Public Schools.
Liz Reed
A teacher at Owasso Public Schools.
LeeAnn Pressler
A teacher at Bartlesville Public Schools.
Oklahoma State Department of Education
The state agency that oversees K-12 public education in Oklahoma and administers the Teacher of the Year program.
What they’re saying
“Being named a finalist for Oklahoma Teacher of the Year is a tremendous honor. I'm grateful to represent my district and community in this prestigious program.”
— Keely Flynn (Tulsa World)
“Our teachers in Owasso are truly exceptional, and I'm humbled to be recognized alongside my peers from across the state.”
— Liz Reed (Tulsa World)
What’s next
The winner of the 2026 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year award will be announced in the coming months.
The takeaway
The finalists for Oklahoma Teacher of the Year represent the high caliber of educators in northeastern Oklahoma school districts, showcasing the commitment to excellence in teaching that benefits students throughout the region.
