The Nevada Center for Civic Engagement and the We the People community have named Spring Creek Elementary School’s fifth-grade teacher, Katherine Kelly, as the 2026 Dickinson Emerging Teacher of the Year.
This statewide honor recognizes a Nevada educator who shows outstanding promise in civic education. Kelly was selected for her ability to turn her classroom into a space where students not only learn about citizenship but actively practice it.
Her teaching emphasizes student voice, civil discourse and community engagement. Students under her guidance have successfully advocated for changes in school policies through respectful and informed dialogue.
Kelly has also participated in the Civics Empowers All Students professional learning cohort and shared her knowledge statewide, including presenting on AI in education at the Nevada History Day Conference.
As part of the award, Kelly will serve as a volunteer at the We the People National Finals in Washington, D.C. in April 2026.
"Your leadership, your promise and the powerful example you set for students and colleagues alike make this a well-deserved recognition," said Christine Hull, executive director of the Nevada Center for Civic Engagement.