2025 Teacher of the Year Nominations

Two Edina Public Schools teachers have been nominated as candidates for the 2025 Minnesota Teacher of the Year award. Bianca Suglia (Normandale Elementary) and Katharine Thomas (Normandale Elementary) are among the 142 candidates throughout Minnesota.

Bianca Suglia has worked in Edina Public Schools for more than 20 years as a 5th grade teacher, a peer coach, and is currently a 4th grade teacher at the Normandale French Immersion School. She believes in infusing cultural responsiveness in all curricular areas to enhance the engagement of all students. Of the nomination, she shared, "I am honored to have a platform that can place the spotlight on the true artists of our time, the teachers, their talents, and dedication in touching the future and making a positive impact in the world."

Katharine Thomas has worked in Edina Public Schools for more than 15 years as a paraprofessional, kindergarten teacher, 1st grade teacher, and is currently a 3rd grade teacher at the Normandale French Immersion School. She strives to create an inclusive classroom community where each and every student feels like they belong and matter. “I feel deeply grateful for this nomination.”

This year’s program will name the 61st Minnesota Teacher of the Year. The program celebrates the tradition of excellence in teaching in Minnesota. Eligible candidates include pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade, Early Childhood Family Education, and Adult Basic Education teachers, from public or private schools. 

An independent selection panel of leaders in the fields of education, business, government, nonprofit, and philanthropy will read candidates’ portfolios over the next few weeks and narrow the list to a group of semifinalists. In March, the panel will convene again and review additional materials from the semifinalists to choose a group of finalists. The Minnesota Teacher of the Year banquet is set for May 4 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre.

To see the full list of nominees visit: https://educationminnesota.org/news/press-release/142-teachers-are-candidates-for-2025-minnesota-teacher-of-the-year