Teachers make a lasting impact by inspiring curiosity, building confidence, and helping students reach their potential. That is why Royal Credit Union is proud to once again partner with FOX 9 for the 2026 Top Teacher program, which recognizes exceptional educators across Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
This year, hundreds of nominations highlighted the difference these teachers make, and Royal awarded each of the ten winners $1,000 for classroom resources and student enrichment. Together, the 2026 FOX 9 Top Teachers represent a shared commitment to helping students thrive.
Meet the 2026 FOX 9 Top Teachers
Angela Schmoker | Baldwin-Woodville High School | Baldwin, Wisconsin
For 30 years, Angela Schmoker has been committed to serving not only her students, but also the surrounding community. Schmoker runs the school’s foods department and leads the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America chapter. Through her leadership, the chapter has raised money to provide food for those in need and help cover other important life expenses. In addition, every December, Schmoker and her students create and sell holiday treats to raise funds for gifts for residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, as well as families who cannot afford presents. Through this program, Schmoker has raised thousands of dollars. Her commitment to her community is inspiring and teaches her students the importance of showing up for others.
Alexandra Hermoza | Simley Senior High School | Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota
Alexandra Hermoza, a special education teacher at Simley Senior High, has made it her mission to create unique and empowering experiences for her students. Through the school’s transition program, Hermoza has created meaningful opportunities for growth and independence. In 2025, she launched Coffee Cart Friday, a program that allows transition students to prepare and deliver coffee and treats to staff members throughout the school. Each week, students rotate through different roles, giving them a chance to build new skills and gain valuable experience. The joy of Coffee Cart Friday brings both the students, and the broader school community is undeniable. Hermoza is a positive and adaptable educator who is deeply committed to helping her students grow. On the last day of school, she takes her students on a field trip to McDonalds, where each student has the opportunity to order independently: a milestone that may seem small to some but can mean so much. Dedicated to creating individualized lessons tailored to each students’ needs, Hermoza’s care for her students is apparent to all.
Derrick Meyer | Amery High School | Amery, Wisconsin
For more than 30 years, Derrick Meyer’s passion for agriculture and dedication to his students have inspired many. Throughout his career, Meyer has accomplished so much with the well-being of his students in mind. Meyer leads the Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter at Amery High School, where his students have earned multiple state and national championships under his leadership. Beyond his success with FFA, Meyer has made many significant contributions to the school through his role in creating the school’s on-campus farm. His commitment to students goes beyond the school day, as he makes himself available for students whenever they need support. Whether before school or after, Meyer has remained dedicated to growing his students’ love for agriculture and expanding their access to it.
Karen Kruse | Madison Elementary School | St. Cloud, Minnesota
Karen Kruse is far more than a music teacher. She knows each of her students, along with their parents or guardians, by name and makes every child feel seen, valued, and supported. Her impact reaches far beyond the music classroom, as she steps in to help with nearly every part of school life, from student drop-off and pick-up to picnics, math night, literacy night, and countless other events. Kruse is a steady, caring presence throughout the school day and beyond, offering one-on-one support to students who need extra encouragement or guidance when they are having a difficult time. She also goes above and beyond to care for families in need, especially during the holidays. At Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, Kruse makes sure more than 50 families have a complete holiday meal. She distributes them to families, even delivering meals herself when someone cannot make it to pick them up. Kruse pays for these meals out of her own pocket and continues serving others on the holidays as well, whether that means giving rides or helping however she can. Her extraordinary generosity and unwavering support make her a remarkable presence in the lives of her students, their families, and the entire school community.
Joey Hartfiel | Buffalo Community Middle School | Buffalo, Minnesota
Joey Hartfiel has made a meaningful impact as a special education teacher through his leadership, dedication, and deep commitment to student success. To strengthen his ability to serve students, Hartfiel earned his master’s degree in special education, and used his knowledge to develop a curriculum that is now used throughout the building. In the classroom, Hartfiel sets high expectations while giving students the tools they need to build social and emotional skills, set goals, and grow confidence. He recognizes each learner’s unique strengths, challenges, and circumstances, and thoughtfully differentiates lessons to meet individual needs. Hartfiel also works tirelessly to support students in increasing their time in grade-level classrooms with their peers across academic content areas, providing supplemental materials for those who want to deepen their understanding. His commitment to student growth extends beyond academics, as he encourages participation in activities both in and outside of school and carefully plans successful transitions for students entering, moving through, and exiting his program. Beyond the classroom, Hartfiel has advanced the district’s Polar Plunge initiative, serves as a leader in 4-H, and coaches at the varsity level.
Jesse Wagner | Legacy Christian Academy | Andover, Minnesota
Jesse Wagner, an English and Theatre teacher at Legacy Christian Academy, works hard to help his students develop a deep understanding of literature. He has a gift for breaking down texts in a way that helps students grasp their meaning and appreciate their depth. Wagner pours his heart into every production, rehearsal, and mentoring moment. He not only encourages his students to become stronger performers but also helps them grow as people. He instills lifelong lessons with an emphasis on character and confidence. Wagner’s passion for his work and genuine care for his students is contagious. His students look up to him and value his presence. During his time with the theatre program, it has grown into a cornerstone of the school. The way Wagner carries himself and leads in both the classroom and on the stage has helped many students develop a deep love for the arts.
Ryan Pechacek | River Falls High School | River Falls, Wisconsin
From serving as Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter Advisor to coaching football, Ryan Pechacek is one of the most beloved teachers at River Falls High School. He has led the school’s FFA chapter for more than ten years, growing the program from just a couple of dozen members to more than 150. His passion for agriculture guides everything he does and is evident in the way he invests in his students. Pechacek works hard to help them reach their full potential, taking them to workshops, leadership conferences, and competitions, so they have the tools they need to succeed. Students can often be found spending lunches and breaks in his classroom, and many say that FFA feels like family because of the environment he has created. His emphasis on personal growth and team building is at the heart of his teaching style.
Harry Kaiser | Annunciation Catholic School | Minneapolis, Minnesota
Harry Kaiser, a teacher at Annunciation Catholic School, received a record number of nominations this year. As a Physical Education teacher and coach, he works with students across all grade levels and has made a meaningful impact through his energy, care, and ability to connect with each student. In August 2025, the Annunciation community experienced an unimaginable tragedy. During the challenging months that followed, Kaiser became a steady source of support for students, creating opportunities for connection, encouragement, and joy through play and teamwork. Whether hosting wiffleball games after school or supporting early morning Saturday basketball, he provides a welcoming space where students can build friendships, gain confidence, and, most importantly, simply be kids. Kaiser is a celebrated and loved member of his community, and his passion, strength, and care do not go unnoticed.
James Ellis | Olson Middle School | Minneapolis, Minnesota
James Ellis is an English teacher and Drama Club leader at Olson Middle School. He is the kind of teacher who makes kids want to come to school. His door is always open, and he is dedicated to mentoring students both in and out of the classroom. His classroom is a safe space for students who may be having a bad day, struggling after a test, or simply need to vent. In addition to his work in the classroom, Ellis is deeply involved in extracurricular activities. During his first year, he helped start the Drama Club. As the program was just beginning and resources were limited, he worked alongside students to help them write and perform their own play. Ellis is also a track coach and consistently encourages and supports his athletes, helping them grow into the best versions of themselves. He truly embodies what it means to show up for students.
Missy Mills | Crystal Lake Education Center | Lakeville, Minnesota
Missy Mills, an early childhood special needs teacher at Crystal Lake Education Center, has spent nearly 20 years making a life-changing difference for children and families. She works directly with families in their homes, supporting young children with developmental challenges. Her role goes far beyond teaching. Mills coaches parents, encourages families, and helps children reach milestones and celebrate progress along the way. Over the years, Mills has continued to invest in her education so she can better serve her students, most recently earning National Board Certification, one of the highest distinctions in the teaching profession. This year, she was one of only five teachers in Minnesota to earn the certification and the only one in the state in Early Childhood. While that recognition reflects her professional excellence, what truly sets Mills apart is her heart. To the families she serves, she is not just a teacher, but also a guide, advocate, friend, and source of hope.
