Lauren Sage Moves One Step Closer to Kansas Teacher of the Year

F.L. Schlagle High School biology and environment science teacher Lauren Sage sat patiently in the school’s “Peace Room,” awaiting her highly anticipated interview.

On Wednesday, April 16, two officials from the Kansas State Department of Education Communications and Recognitions Programs visited Schlagle to meet with Sage, a state finalist for the 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year.

The officials met jointly with Sage and Principal Lazell Williams to discuss expectations for the school year, should Page receive the honor.

If Sage were to win Kansas Teacher of the Year, she would be expected to be away from her class for at least 30 to 45 days during the school year.

During that time, she would be required to participate in presentations, as well as meeting with state legislators and other educators.

The school visit also included a one-on-one interview, a 5- to 10-minute presentation by Sage,  and a recorded observation of her teaching in the classroom.

The video recording is intended to be used as promotional materials, showcasing a teacher’s professional image, presence, communication skills, and presentation skills.   

The state selection committee will also evaluate Sage’s presence in the classroom, her interaction with students, and student engagement.

The whole process can be daunting, but Sage believes that everything went well. “I think I talked a little bit too long, but you know you can’t tell us teachers that we can take as long as we want to answer any sorts of questions, because we’ll just go on and on,” she jokingly shared.

Despite a potentially hectic schedule, Sage is enthusiastic about what lies ahead. “I’m excited for the opportunity to collaborate with other educators and to meet with our legislators to talk about what we need for education going forward.”

Principal Williams believes Sage is the ideal candidate for Kansas Teacher of the Year honors. “She is an advocate. She talks about the issues. She talks about big picture. She talks about what education means to the community. What it means for families. What it means for our students. That’s what the Teacher of the Year is supposed to be, and that’s exactly who she is,” added Williams.

This year, 136 educators across the state were nominated for the Kansas Teacher of the Year distinction.

The Kansas Teacher of the Year program’s mission is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders improving schools, student performance and the teaching profession.

The Kansas Teacher of the Year award winner will be announced during a ceremony on Saturday, September 20, in Wichita, Kansas.

Good luck to Miss Sage.