Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Education topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Arizona Teacher of the Year spotlights inclusive special-education practice
Summary
Tiffany Joseph, the 2026 Arizona Teacher of the Year and a special-education teacher at Copper View Elementary, told the board she will use her platform to promote inclusive practices that bring general and special education together and to advocate for aspiring teachers.
The board heard from Tiffany Joseph, 2026 Arizona Teacher of the Year, introduced by Mark Pollson of the Arizona Educational Foundation. Joseph described her pathway from general education to special education and said inclusion and collaboration between general and special education drive her work. She described a classroom model (extended resource) serving K–5 students with significant support needs and highlighted initiatives she’s pursuing, including curriculum development for students with Down syndrome and outreach to aspiring teachers.
Mark Pollson noted AEF’s statewide programs to recognize educators and announced an August event to name Arizona’s Teacher of the Year representative and honor semi-finalists and ambassadors. Board members praised Joseph’s advocacy and her role mentoring teachers, and several members noted the value of her statewide and national opportunities through AEF.
Joseph said she would continue to use her platform to speak to school boards and universities, promote inclusive strategies, and expand professional learning for educators to improve access for students with disabilities. The board offered congratulations and asked that AD and AEF continue collaboration to elevate the teaching profession.
