The 2026 Connecticut Teacher Of The Year Works In Danbury

DANBURY, CT — Rogers Park Middle School teacher Brian Betesh has been named Connecticut’s 2026 Teacher of the Year, Governor Ned Lamont and state Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker announced Friday during a surprise school assembly.

Betesh, a sixth-grade social studies teacher and Danbury native, was honored before students, colleagues, and local officials including U.S. Rep. Jahana Hayes, State Board of Education Vice Chair Erin Benham, Danbury Mayor Roberto Alves, and Superintendent Kara Casimiro. The award is the state’s highest recognition for educators.

“Brian Betesh is a remarkable educator whose creativity, leadership, and deep commitment to his students embody the spirit of Connecticut’s public schools,” Lamont said. “By empowering students to take ownership of their education and connect it to their community, Brian is helping shape the next generation of thinkers and leaders.”

Russell-Tucker praised Betesh as an educator who “embodies everything we celebrate in Connecticut’s teachers — creativity, compassion, and an unwavering belief in every student.”

Now in his 19th year at Rogers Park, Betesh has become known for blending classroom learning with community engagement. He has launched several student-led initiatives, including Park 21, a club focused on improving school culture; SEVEN, a project-based learning class where students develop community impact projects; and the Rogers That! podcast, which has produced more than 100 episodes featuring local leaders and alumni.

Betesh also helped create the ROARcording Studio and Bella Patterson Innovation Lab, spaces that encourage media production and hands-on creativity. As Rogers Park’s DonorsChoose Ambassador, he has helped secure more than $500,000 in classroom resources for teachers and students.

“Brian represents the very best of our profession,” said Superintendent Casimiro. “His empathy, intellect, and leadership empower those around him and inspire curiosity in his students.”

Principal Michael Boucher described Betesh as “a selfless educator” whose “influence extends far beyond the classroom walls.”

The Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, made up of past honorees and community representatives, selected Betesh after reviewing nearly 100 district-level teachers through applications, interviews, and school visits.

As the 2026 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, Betesh will now represent the state in the competition for National Teacher of the Year, succeeding Julia Miller of New Haven’s Metropolitan Business Academy, who held the 2025 title.

“Brian Betesh exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional educator, creating a classroom alive with curiosity, collaboration, and respect,” said Connecticut Education Association President Kate Dias. “His energy, creativity, and unwavering dedication reflect the very best of what teaching can be.”