Gunnison teacher named 2027 Colorado Teacher of the Year semifinalist

A Gunnison third-grade teacher has been recognized as one of the best educators in Colorado. Sarah Murtaugh was named a 2027 Colorado Teacher of the Year semifinalist June 3. She was one of 21 educators selected from 297 applicants statewide.

Murtaugh, who teaches English language arts, math, science and social studies at Gunnison Elementary School, was chosen by a review committee of more than 40 people, including former Colorado Teachers of the Year, Colorado Department of Education staff, and representatives from the Boettcher Foundation.

“Being selected as a semifinalist is incredibly humbling and meaningful,” Murtaugh said. “This recognition reflects the students who inspire me, the colleagues who support me, and the families and community who make this work possible. Teaching is never a solo effort, and I am grateful to represent Gunnison alongside so many talented educators across the state.”

Murtaugh has taught for 12 years, all of them in Gunnison Watershed School District. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from San Diego State University and a master’s degree in teacher leadership from Western State Colorado University in Gunnison.

For Murtaugh, third grade is where the magic happens. “I love finding innovative ways to teach students and witness their curiosity, resilience and growth every day,” she said. “It’s important to me to teach students not only how to do, but also how to be.”

She also values the community that surrounds her students. “The strong sense of community in the Gunnison Valley is something I value deeply,” she said. “As educators, we work together to create unique and meaningful opportunities for students to explore this beautiful place we call home.”

Superintendent Leslie Nichols described Murtaugh as exceptionally dedicated and skilled. “Walking into her classroom brings a sense of calm order and high energy focused on learning," Nichols said. “Sarah’s students know what to expect in their days and thrive in her standards-based, high-expectations, loving environment.”

Murtaugh’s influence at Gunnison Elementary extends well beyond her classroom. She brought the PRIDE framework from a school where she previously taught, working with colleagues to adapt it for Gunnison—and eventually expanding it schoolwide with Principal Robin Wilkinson.

PRIDE stands for Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Duty and Excellence. “We show PRIDE each day by living out those values and recognizing them in one another,” Murtaugh said. “During morning announcements, students, teachers and staff give shout-outs celebrating the PRIDE they see throughout our school. One of my favorite parts is watching students notice the good in each other and cheer one another on.”

“Today PRIDE serves as the foundation of our school culture,” Wilkinson said. “It provides a common language for students, staff, and families and allows us to celebrate students not just for their academic success, but for the kind of people they are becoming. Sarah’s leadership and vision helped turn a classroom practice into a system that now impacts every student in our building.”

“I hope this moment shines a light on the students, educators, families, and community members who make Gunnison such a wonderful place,” Murtaugh said. “This belongs to them just as much as it belongs to me. As I tell my students, anything is possible. Even if you are from a small town, you can still do big things.”

“We are fortunate to have such talented and dedicated educators serving students across Colorado,” said Education Commissioner Susana Córdova. “These semifinalists reflect the passion, creativity and commitment that define our profession.”

Semifinalists will now complete additional essay questions as part of the selection process. The department will announce finalists in September and name the 2027 Colorado Teacher of the Year in October. The winner receives $10,000, courtesy of the Boettcher Foundation and the Colorado Department of Education, and represents Colorado’s more than 55,000 educators at the state and national levels.