Greeley-Evans teacher Steven Paulson named Colorado Teacher of the Year; board honors him

The Greeley-Evans School District 6 board on Monday honored Steven Paulson after the Colorado Department of Education named him Colorado Teacher of the Year. Superintendent Dr. Pilch said Paulson will be recognized at the state board of education meeting later this week.

Paulson, an AP teacher at Greeley Central High School, was introduced with a video and a series of testimonials from colleagues and state officials praising his mentorship, classroom rigor and leadership. Dr. Pilch said the district has “a star among you” in Paulson and that the state “truly chose a fine, fine educator.”

Why it matters: Paulson is the first teacher from District 6 to receive the state honor. Colleagues told the board his work expanded AP enrollment, created a robust freshman AVID program and organized career-mentorship opportunities that connected nearly 90 sophomores with local professionals.

Colleagues cited measurable student outcomes in remarks to the board. One presenter said Paulson’s mentorship helped students secure more than $10,000,000 in scholarships during his time as a mentor. A state education official who attended the meeting also praised his instructional approach and the community he has built around student success.

Paulson, accepting the honor, emphasized the role of others in his recognition and explained a recent decision about national recognition. “I did withdraw from the National Teacher of the Year, and that was by choice because I don't want to take a year-long sabbatical,” he told the board, adding that he is honored to represent his students and community.

What’s next: Dr. Pilch said Paulson, along with district leaders, will attend the Colorado State Board of Education meeting later in the week for a formal recognition. The board’s celebration concluded and the meeting continued with other agenda items.

(Attribution: President Masch; Superintendent Dr. Pilch; Steven Paulson; colleague presenters.)