The State Board of Education of Ohio has named Troy City Schools Literary Instructional Support Specialist Sarah Walters as the 2027 State Board District 3 Teacher of the Year. Walters is one of 11 outstanding educators across Ohio selected for this regional honor. Four of the eleven will advance to compete for the 2027 Ohio Teacher of the Year title.

With nearly two decades in elementary education, Walters now serves as a Literacy Instructional Support Specialist. In this role, she designs and delivers comprehensive professional development for K–6 teachers, emphasizing evidence-based literacy practices aligned with the five essential components of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Through coaching, modeling lessons, and ongoing support, she helps strengthen instructional quality and improve student outcomes districtwide.

Walters holds advanced credentials in structured literacy, including Institute for Multi-Sensory Education (IMSE) Orton-Gillingham certification and designation as a Level 4 IMSE OG Master Instructor, as well as Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI) Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist Certification. Her expertise is especially valuable in supporting struggling readers and equipping teachers with effective intervention strategies.

Prior to her current position, Walters taught at the elementary level for 15 years and successfully transitioned to virtual instruction as a teacher with Troy Online Academy, where she created engaging, technology-rich learning experiences for primary students. She holds master’s degrees in school counseling and educational leadership, along with a K–12 reading endorsement.

“Sarah Walters exemplifies the highest standards of teaching and leadership in Troy City Schools,” said Troy City Schools Superintendent Chris Piper. “Her dedication to literacy and her support for our educators and students make her an outstanding representative for our district and for public education in Ohio.”

The Ohio Teacher of the Year program, established in 1964, recognizes exceptional teachers who serve as ambassadors for the profession. District-level honorees like Walters advance through a selection process that highlights expertise, collaboration, innovation, and community impact.