CONCORD – On May 23, the New Hampshire Department of Education announced the semi-finalists for the 2026 New Hampshire Teacher of the Year Award, and two hail from Manchester School District.
Sharon DeVincent, a 4th Grade teacher at Jewett Street Elementary School, and Michelle McGee, business teacher at Manchester School of Technology, are among the 9 semi-finalists.
"I'm honored to be selected as a semi-finalist for the 2026 NH Teacher of the Year," DeVincent said. "This recognition is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the incredible learning taking place in my classroom, at Jewett Street School, and across the Manchester School District. Every day, I look forward to those powerful moments when a student discovers something new, experiences an 'ah-ha' realization, or uncovers a passion that could shape their future. These small, meaningful moments are the heartbeat of education — and they create a lasting impact."
McGee said that the recognition has been extra special because of where it originated, with one of her students.
"Most of the time, it’s the teachers who look for valuable opportunities, and seek recognition for students," McGee said. "It meant so much to hear a student say, 'I nominated you for a teacher of the year thing on social media, and I really think you should go for it,' You don’t outgrow the feeling you get from someone believing in you."
"It’s awesome to see our teachers receiving state-wide recognition for their work," said Superintendent Jennifer Chmiel. "We know their value internally to the District, but it's just really nice to be able to highlight and share their work on a broader level."
The teachers were selected from a total of 105 nominees and 29 applicants. The 29 applicants for the award included 7 Manchester educators.
"We are thrilled that Mrs. McGee and Mrs. DeVincent are moving forward as semi-finalists and we will certainly be cheering them on as they continue through the process," Chmiel added. "Thank you to all of the District educators who put their names up for consideration this year – we are extremely proud of you and grateful for your dedication to our students."
The full list of semi-finalists includes:
Sharon DeVincent of Jewett Street School in Manchester
Michelle McGee of Manchester School of Technology in Manchester
Justine Dube of Lamprey River Elementary School in Raymond
Jennifer Howard of Hampstead Middle School in Hampstead
Ashley LeClair of Pinkerton Academy in Derry
Jennifer McDonald of Gilford High School in Gilford
Kelsey Moore of Heartwood Public Charter School in Jefferson
Megan Philbrook of Andover Elementary/Middle School in Andover
Bob Pooler of Hollis-Brookline Middle School in Hollis
This summer, the group of semi-finalists will make presentations to the selection committee; from the group of 9, 4 finalists will be selected ahead of site visits once the school year begins. The winner will be announced in the fall.
"Through this process, I have already met wonderful educators from across the state who I hope to continue to connect with," McGee said. "This is proving to be valuable experience every step of the way. I am ready for the next round."
Gov. Kelly Ayotte and leaders from the Department of Education cheered the announcement of the semi-finalists.
“Congratulations to this year’s Teacher of the Year semi-finalists. These outstanding educators represent the very best of New Hampshire schools – where excellence, creativity, and compassion come together to shape the future of our state,” said Governor Kelly Ayotte. “Joe and I are proud to celebrate their dedication and grateful for the difference they make in the lives of Granite State students and families.”
“It’s a privilege to introduce our nine semi-finalists. Their passion for student success and commitment to excellence shine through, and I commend them for their profound impact on education. We look forward to learning more about each of them as the selection process continues,” said Christine Brennan, deputy commissioner of education.
Commissioner Frank Edelblut echoed those sentiments. “These semi-finalists are cultivating inspiring classrooms where growth and collaboration thrive. Their influence extends beyond their own students, uplifting colleagues and strengthening the fabric of their school communities,” said Edelblut.
You can read more about the Teacher of the Year process on the Department of Education website.