Rachel Marlow Named Kansas Teacher of the Year
Rachel Marlow Named Kansas Teacher of the Year
Rachel Marlow, a music educator at Central Elementary School, was named the 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) on Saturday, Sept. 20. Marlow is now in the running for the National Teacher of the Year.
“This recognition is a testament to not only Rachel’s unwavering dedication to educating all students, but to the art of music and the power of inclusive education” Superintendent Dr. Brent Yeager said. “This honor is well-deserved, and all of us here at Olathe Public Schools are proud to celebrate your incredible impact on students, colleagues, and the broader education community. Congratulations, Rachel, and thank you for leading with heart, purpose and harmony!”
Marlow’s background encompasses teaching special education, general music, vocal music, and instrumental music. She earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from Oklahoma City University and a master’s degree in special education from MidAmerica Nazarene University.
"As an experienced educator in both special education and music, my journey is driven by a deep love for both fields,” Marlow said. “With a lifelong dedication to music and a personal connection to special education due to my hearing disability, I strive to inspire students by example. Fostering inclusivity, I value each student's unique abilities, using music to connect, empower, and teach unity and collaboration... Through my teaching and initiatives, my goal is to make inclusive music education a reality, striving to empower students and create meaningful connections through music's diverse lessons.”
This year, there were 126 educators across the state nominated for the prestigious award with eight finalists being chosen at the state level. Brandi Leggett, Central Elementary School principal, credits Marlow’s collaborative spirit and commitment to inclusivity as key factors in creating a positive and uplifting school community.
"Her work has created performances so engaging that every seat is filled, with audience members even standing along the walls to enjoy the show, which is a true testament to the vibrant, inclusive culture she has cultivated in our music department,” Leggett said.
As the Kansas Teacher of the Year, Marlow will travel around the state to advocate for education and provide professional development for her fellow teachers. Marlow was presented with a $4,000 cash award, the Kansas Teacher of the Year Lifelong Learning Scholarship to attend participating universities free of charge during her duration of teaching in Kansas, funding for travel and other expenses with the Hubbard Foundation Kansas Teacher of the Year Ambassadorship, among other things.
Martha Gabel, Olathe Public Schools fine arts coordinator, said Marlow’s classroom “is a vibrant space where students actively engage in diverse musical experiences, from singing and playing instruments to music reading, analysis, composition, and expressive movement.”
The Kansas State Department of Education appoints regional selection panels comprised of teachers, district administrators and higher education representatives to select semifinalists and finalists from each region.
“Rachel is a true professional who has made the art of music accessible to all students,” said Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson. “Having overcome barriers of her own, she emphasizes the importance of inclusion and connection to empower students to make a positive impact in their communities.”