Kalispell Education Foundation and Stockman Bank Honor Elementary Educator of the Year

Kalispell Education Foundation (KEF), in partnership with Kalispell Public Schools, was proud to surprise Hedges Elementary School teacher Derrick Criner as the 2026 Elementary School Educator of the Year during a school-wide assembly on Wednesday, May 6.

This award, made possible through the generous support of Stockman Bank, recognizes Mr. Criner for his extraordinary dedication to students and his unwavering commitment to excellence in education.

“I am truly honored to accept Educator of the Year. I am grateful to work alongside such amazing administrators, teachers, support staff, and students every day," Criner said. "Their dedication and encouragement inspire me, and I am proud to be part of a school community that works together to help every student grow and succeed.”

Mr. Criner is known for his strong commitment to student success, thoughtful preparation, and ability to create a classroom where every student feels seen and supported. His work reflects a deep belief that all students can grow and succeed when given the right tools, encouragement, and opportunities.

Families consistently point to the lasting impact Mr. Criner has on both academic growth and student confidence.

"Derrick Criner is truly a one of a kind educator," shared one parent. "His passion for education is evident in every interaction. He meets students where they are and ensures every child feels valued and capable, helping build both confidence and a love of learning."

Students themselves recognize the care and effort Mr. Criner brings to the classroom.

"I think Mr. Criner should be the educator of the year because he's very good at teaching," shared one student. "He helps us with great strategies, teaches two grades at once, and he's my favorite teacher I've ever had."

Beyond his own classroom, Mr. Criner serves as a UFLI Implementation Team Leader at Hedges Elementary, helping fellow educators across the district strengthen foundational reading instruction through structured literacy practices. His leadership in this work extends his impact to students in classrooms far beyond his own.

Through his thoughtful instruction, strong relationships, and unwavering dedication, Mr. Criner exemplifies the very best of Kalispell's schools. His impact reaches far beyond the classroom and will continue to shape the lives of his students for years to come.

This year's selection process was led by the KEF Student Board, which includes Naomi Miller and Hudson Capser of Flathead High School and Josh Lee and Myla Lamson of Glacier High School.

KEF Executive Director Dorothy Drury shared, "This year, our Educator of the Year awards program, which recognizes teachers across multiple grade levels as well as support staff, received a grand total of 1,465 nominations from students, families, and community members. It was a meaningful increase from last year, which reflects both the strength of our educators and the kindness of a community that shows up to celebrate them. It’s a powerful reminder of the positive influence our teachers have on students each day. 

Mr. Criner received a $1,000 grant for his classroom and a $250 personal award, generously provided by Stockman Bank. 

Derrick Criner, 2026 Elementary Educator of the Year, and his class.

ABOUT THIS AWARD

Each year, Kalispell Education Foundation (KEF) recognizes employees at the Elementary, Middle, and High School levels through two annual awards: Teacher of the Year and Essential Staff of the Year. KEF thanks Stockman Bank for generously sponsoring this award and helping bring valuable and deserved attention to the dedication and hard work of our public school employees.