Governor Mifflin School District librarian Rachel Sebastian has been named a finalist for Pennsylvania’s 2026 Teacher of the Year. Sebastian, who serves at Brecknock Elementary, is one of just 12 educators statewide to receive the honor—and the only finalist representing Berks County.
The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) announced the finalists this week, recognizing educators who demonstrate outstanding classroom practices and meaningful community engagement. Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe highlighted the impact of teachers like Sebastian, stating, “Excellent educators make a lifelong impact on the learners they serve each day in classrooms across the Commonwealth.”
Sebastian’s approach to teaching goes far beyond traditional library services. Through innovative programs like “BookBeasts,” a student-led trading card series designed to foster literacy, and the “Thanks-for-Giving Parade,” a research project highlighting local nonprofits, she has created immersive learning experiences that connect students to their community. Most recently, she led the Brecknock Business Symposium, partnering students with local business leaders and the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance to explore the role of businesses in the local economy.
“We are preparing our students to be leaders in all communities, be it locally, nationally, or globally,” said Sebastian. “Experiential learning creates symbiotic community relationships, opening up young learners to new careers and new ideas about how to serve and strengthen their community.”
The Teacher of the Year program recognizes educators who inspire students of all backgrounds and actively engage with their school and community. The winner will be announced at a state awards ceremony in December 2025 and will represent Pennsylvania at various educational events, including the National Teacher of the Year ceremony at the White House.
The recognition of Sebastian follows a historic milestone for Pennsylvania, as 2024 state honoree Ashlie Crosson was recently named the National Teacher of the Year—the first Pennsylvanian to receive the national distinction.
Governor Mifflin School District celebrated Sebastian’s achievement in a statement, expressing pride in her dedication and innovative work. “We are so incredibly proud to have Mrs. Sebastian as part of #MustangNation. Congratulations, this is so well deserved and we are rooting for you all the way!”
For now, Berks County will be watching as Sebastian continues to inspire her students and community, with hopes of seeing her named Pennsylvania’s 2026 Teacher of the Year later this year.