Teacher Advisory Panel

Our Teacher Advisory Panel for the 2025 Smithsonian National Education Summit features five outstanding state teachers of the year. These exceptional educators brought their expertise and passion to guide the Smithsonian on conference themes, relevant topics, and useful resources, ensuring the summit resonates with educators nationwide and has a significant impact across the U.S. educational community. 

Casey Cuny
Casey Cuny
2024 California Teacher of the Year
High School Honors English, Valencia High School, Santa Clarita, California
Alejandro Diasgranados
Alejandro Diasgranados
2021 Washington, D.C. Teacher of the Year
Elementary Educator, Whitlock Elementary School in Washington, D.C.
Dylan Huisken
Dylan Huisken
2019 Montana Teacher of the Year
Middle School Social Studies, Bonner Middle School, Montana
Ashley Lockwood
Ashley Lockwood
2023 Delaware Teacher of the Year
Fifth Grade English Language Arts and Social Studies at Lulu M. Ross ES, Milford, Delaware
Donnie Piercey
Donnie Piercey
2021 Kentucky Teacher of the Year
Fourth Grade at Ashland Elementary School, Kentucky