The Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) congratulated Leon Smith, a social studies teacher at Haverford High School in Delaware County, after he was named the 2026 National Teacher of the Year on April 21.
Smith has taught for more than two decades and leads Advanced Placement United States history and African American studies classes. He also started an Educators Rising chapter at his school to help students consider careers in education.
“The Pennsylvania State Education Association is proud to count Leon Smith as a member,” said PSEA President Aaron Chapin. “Leon is an inspiration to his students, his colleagues, and his community. He is an educator who encourages his students to think critically and follow their dreams. And his work extends beyond his own school, as he works to ensure a more diverse educator workforce for the future. We admire his passion for teaching, his dedication to his students, and his tireless work to foster more inclusive environments.”
Smith holds degrees from the University of Maryland at College Park and Pennsylvania State University, along with principal certification from Cabrini University. He has also coached freshman basketball for over twenty years.
This marks the second consecutive year that a Pennsylvania educator and PSEA member has received this national honor; Ashlie Crosson of Mifflin County High School was recognized in 2025.
The PSEA supports community engagement across Pennsylvania through resources for educators and students according to its official website. The organization represents more than 178,000 educators, support professionals, higher education staff, retirees, and students according to its official website. The association aims to promote quality public education by advocating for members while offering professional development opportunities and legislative support according to its official website. It serves educators statewide via regional offices and initiatives according to its official website, pursues legislative advocacy focused on excellent public schools according to its official website, and provides services such as legal protection, collective bargaining support, classroom resources, and professional development according to its official website.
