06/01/2026
Congratulations to NCSD’s Teacher of the Year, Jackie O’Briant!
The Natrona County School District is proud to recognize Jackie O’Briant, English Language Arts teacher at Natrona County High School, as the 2026 District Teacher of the Year.
Mrs. O’Briant exemplifies what it means to be an extraordinary educator. Her impact extends far beyond the classroom, inspiring both students and fellow educators through her passion for literacy, authentic learning, and meaningful relationships. “Mrs. O’Briant has worked to solidify herself as a teacher students want to have at one point in their high school career,” shared Principal Aaron Wilson. “She is a compassionate teacher but understands the necessity of holding students accountable for their work, their learning, and themselves. She builds strong relationships with students, and it is for that reason they are willing to work hard to meet her expectations. She challenges students’ thinking and will work to make sure they are engaged in her class each and every day.”
Mrs. O’Briant’s journey in education began in 2004, when she started as a math teacher at CY Middle School. From there, she transitioned to teaching ELA at Casper Classical Academy and later at Natrona County High School, where she continues to exemplify educational excellence each day.
At the center of Mrs. O’Briant’s teaching philosophy is the belief that students become stronger readers when they are given both choice and voice. She believes deeply in the power of books and the importance of education. Her classroom is filled with opportunities for students to discover books that resonate with them. Mrs. O’Briant regularly gives engaging “book talks” to introduce titles that may spark students’ interest and encourages them to recommend books to one another. One of her students’ favorite traditions is the annual “March Book Madness” bracket competition, where beloved books compete for the championship in a celebration of reading.
Mrs. O’Briant also collaborates with both school and community resources to cultivate literacy. As a writing teacher, Mrs. O’Briant is equally passionate about helping students see writing as more than a classroom assignment. She works to make writing authentic and relevant by inviting published authors into her classroom to share their experiences and lead writing workshops, encouraging student participation in writing events, and giving students opportunities to connect with real-world writing and storytelling.
In addition, Mrs. O’Briant is committed to mentoring and supporting new educators. She strives to help teachers build confidence, discover their strengths, and “find their wings” in the profession. “I have been blessed with many opportunities to be an advocate in my school, state, and beyond through participating in curriculum work for our district, helping to set cut scores for WyTOPP for our state, and presenting workshops at conferences in Wyoming, Colorado, and our school; however, I think the most important way that I’ve been a teacher leader, lifelong learner, and advocate is through leading by example as I’ve sought my own professional development, and thereby encouraging others to seek the learning they need to meet their goals. I think it’s extremely important as a professional to never allow yourself to get stagnant and to keep growing and reflecting; after two decades, I still have so much to learn!”
Congratulations to all the exceptional Natrona County School District Certified Teachers nominated by their colleagues for the Teacher of the Year award.
Tia Dahlgren - Lincoln Elementary
Laurie Gierke - Manor Heights Elementary
Stacia Harvey - Oregon Trail Elementary
Aaron Hinton - Centennial Middle School
Ashley Maxon - Oregon Trail Elementary
Michelle Nicol - Roosevelt High School
Shane Palmer - CY Middle School
Maria Prioli Paris - Kelly Walsh High School
Josh Propp - Pathways Innovation Center
Alyssa Schicketanz - Cottonwood Elementary
Melanie Shutts - Fort Caspar Academy
Kelly Jo Umbach - Verda James Elementary
Delaine Williamson - Summit Elementary School
Brittany Wittler - Evansville Elementary
Nomination criteria required that applicants teach pre-kindergarten through grade twelve and plan to remain in active teaching status. Additionally, nominees must have the respect and admiration of their colleagues and:
• Is an expert in their field who guides students of all backgrounds and abilities to achieve excellence,
• Collaborates with colleagues, students, and families to create a school culture of respect and success,
• Deliberately connects the classroom and key stakeholders to foster a strong community at large,
• Demonstrates leadership and innovation in and outside of the classroom walls that embodies lifelong learning, and
• Expresses themselves in an engaging and articulate way.
Congratulations to all!
