We are proud to announce that Gabriela Whitemarsh, bilingual mathematics teacher at Pasco High School, has been named the 2026 Washington State Teacher of the Year. She was surprised with the honor during the Washington Office of Superintendent of public Instruction’s (OSPI) annual Educator Awards Ceremony in Olympia, Washington on Saturday, Sept. 27.
Whitemarsh, previously honored as the 2025 Regional Teacher of the Year for Educational Service District 123 representing Southeast Washington and as Pasco School District’s 2025 Crystal Apple Award winner, is recognized for her groundbreaking work in expanding access to advanced mathematics for multilingual newcomer students. In 2018, she launched the Advanced Multilingual Mathematics Program, which created new opportunities for students often excluded from accelerated coursework. Since its inception, 92 students have completed advanced math courses, with 41 earning between 5 and 20 college math credits.
Her achievement as a regional winner positioned her to compete against eight other finalists from Educational Service Districts across Washington State for the title of 2026 Washington State Teacher of the Year.
Her innovative approach to teaching - grounded in bilingual, collaborative instruction - has transformed learning opportunities for her students and inspired her colleagues to adopt inclusive, equity-driven practices.
“Mrs. Whitemarsh is a remarkable educator who transforms the lives of her students through innovation, compassion, and dedication,” said Pasco High School Principal Veronica Machado. “She has opened doors for students who never thought college-level math was within reach. We are so proud of the lasting impact she has made on our students and our school community.”
Superintendent Michelle Whitney praised Whitemarsh’s recognition as a testament to her leadership and service: “Gabriela embodies the very best of Pasco School District. Her commitment and relentless belief in her students’ potential have not only changed individual lives but has reshaped how we think about access and opportunity across our system. We are honored to celebrate her as Washington’s Teacher of the Year.”
As State Teacher of the Year, Whitemarsh will participate in statewide and national professional learning opportunities and serve as a teacher-in-residence for the Teacher of the Year program from January through June 2026. She will also join a distinguished cohort of regional and state honorees recognized as leaders in the teaching profession.