Arizona Teacher of the Year 2026

The Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) announced Tiffani Jaseph from Copper View Elementary School in the Sahuarita Unified School District as the 2026 Arizona Teacher of the Year.

Jaseph holds a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and a Master of Arts in special education, both from the University of Arizona. Jaseph has spent the past 15 years as a teacher, as she began her career in general education before discovering her true passion in special education.

Tiffani Jaseph, Arizona Teacher of the Year 2026, joined “Arizona Horizon” to discuss the award and her career as a teacher.

“It was just absolutely incredible,” Jaseph said. “I just kind of let out a cry; just overwhelming gratitude.”

Jaseph explained how honored she is to get this recognition, as she gets the opportunity to be a voice for her students and their families.

She had always wanted to be a teacher, dating back to college when she decided to take that career path, and never looked back. After starting in general education, she eventually realized her true passion for special education.

“I fell in love with it,” Jaseph explained. “I really just wanted to help the students who were more underserved and who just needed more.”

According to Jaseph, the main difference between the two types of education is that special education is much more individualized.

“I’m looking beyond the curriculum, and I’m seeing what they need,” Jaseph said, “how can I help them to access the general education classroom. Some of my students don’t speak, some of my students are in wheelchairs; it’s about inventiveness; it’s about being as creative as possible to meet their needs.”

Jaseph works closely with the general education teachers and assistants to help provide the right opportunities for students in special education.

“We want them to engage with their peers,” Jaseph explained. “My students are a part of the community just like everyone else.”