OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Oklahoma State Department of Education has announced the ten finalists for the 2026 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year.
Three finalists are from Green Country: LeeAnn Pressler from Central Middle School in Bartlesville, Keely Flynn from Lindbergh Elementary in Tulsa, and Liz Reed, an English teacher at the Owasso 8th Grade Center.
Reed was also the 2025 Owasso Public Schools Teacher of the Year.
"Liz Reed embodies the heart of Owasso Public Schools,” OPS Superintendent Dr. Margaret Coates said. "Her ability to connect with students, understand their individual needs, and inspire them to grow both academically and personally sets her apart as an educator. From mentoring students beyond the classroom to creating a culture where every learner feels seen, valued, and encouraged to be their best, Liz’s impact is profound. Being named a finalist for Oklahoma Teacher of the Year is a well-deserved recognition of the difference she makes every day.”
Reed is a 2001 graduate of Owasso High School and a 2005 graduate of Oklahoma State University.
The 2026 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year will be announced in June.
Vanessa Jones | Bethel High School, Bethel
Serena Neely | Will Rogers Elementary, Shawnee
Tracie Grunewald | Oklahoma Virtual High School, Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy
Tobi Gordon | Brink Junior High School, Moore
Mary Tyree | Alva High School, Alva
Ellie Pryor | Cedar Heights, Highland Park, and Horace Mann Elementary, Woodward
LeeAnn Pressler | Central Middle School, Bartlesville
Kasey Bennett | Northwest Heights Elementary
Keely Flynn | Lindbergh Elementary, Durant
Elizabeth Reed | Owasso Eighth Grade Center, Tulsa
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