We are excited to announce that Mr. Jason Peters, mathematics teacher at Hesston High School, is one of eight statewide finalists for the 2026 Dale Dennis Kansas Teacher of the Year Award. The winner will be announced at the Kansas Teacher of the Year Award Banquet held on September 20 in Wichita, KS. Our entire school community is proud of Mr. Peters for this well-deserved honor. You will find more information on the KTOY award below, including a profile on Mr. Peters.
The 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) team is now set with the eight finalists announced during four regional events earlier this month in Topeka, Overland Park, Wichita and Salina. The four regions align with the four Kansas congressional districts.
As part of the application process, the finalists submitted answers to several questions that ranged from describing a content lesson or unit that defines them as a teacher, what project or initiative they’ve been involved in that impacts their school community’s culture to how they demonstrate being a lifelong learner, leader and innovator. The finalists’ answers to some of these questions can be read below.
The applications also have at least three letters from people who have a front row seat to witness how these educators show they are deserving of ultimately becoming the 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year during a ceremony in September. Excerpts from these letters can be found below as well.
Jason Peters – Region 4 secondary finalist
Jason Peters has been a math teacher for 24 years, all of which have been at Hesston High School, Hesston USD 460.
Peters said as a math instructor, he has incorporated technology into his classroom as a teaching tool and believes it can be utilized responsibly if there is a commitment to doing so.
“The challenge in education today is determining how to effectively use technology to benefit student learning, understanding that what is the best today may not be the best in the future,” he said. “As teachers, we need to be aware of the options that are available, not just use technology for the sake of using technology. Educators need to evolve along with technology, continuing to find ways to utilize it effectively and connect with students, while setting limits to keep it from becoming a distraction that will move students away from learning and thinking on their own.”
Jordan Leiker, principal at Hesston High School, said Peters understands students have unique needs and breaks down complex mathematical concepts that are understood for his students.
“Beyond academics, Mr. Peters is a mentor, a motivator, and a role model,” Leiker said. “He fosters a classroom culture where students feel respected, valued, and encouraged to take risks. His warm and approachable demeanor creates a safe and supportive learning environment, and his enthusiasm for teaching is infectious. Students frequently seek him out for guidance, not only in mathematics but also in their personal lives, illustrating the trust and respect he has earned from them.”