CONCORD, NH — Christa Powers, a math teacher at Pinkerton Academy, was named New Hampshire’s 2027 Teacher of the Year during a surprise celebration on Wednesday.
“Congratulations to Christa Powers, New Hampshire’s 2027 Teacher of the Year! Her dedication to student growth and use of innovative approaches to teach complex mathematical concepts demonstrate her dedication to teaching and outstanding commitment to student success. She truly represents the best of the best in New Hampshire, and I am very proud to have great educators like Christa in our state,” said Governor Kelly Ayotte.
Selected from a pool of 124 nominees, Powers was chosen for her creative methods of teaching math and her leadership within the school. Her exceptional skill in making advanced math ideas both accessible and engaging distinguished her among an already impressive group of candidates.
“Christa is a truly deserving recipient of this honor. Her dedication to students and passion for teaching make a lasting impact in the classroom and beyond,” said Dr. Timothy Powers, Head of School.
Christa Powers, of Chester, has been teaching for 14 years. Since 2018, she has been employed at Pinkerton Academy where she teaches a variety of math courses from Algebra Skills to AP Calculus. In addition, she was instrumental in the development, implementation, and redesign of the Technical Mathematics Course for Career and Technical Education.
“Through her work in mathematics, Christa challenges students to think critically, solve problems, and build confidence in a subject that is foundational to so many future opportunities. Her leadership within the school community reflects a deep commitment to her students, her colleagues, and the teaching profession. We are proud to recognize Christa as the 2027 New Hampshire Teacher of the Year,” said Commissioner Caitlin D. Davis of the New Hampshire Department of Education.
Powers, who holds a Master of Educational Leadership and a double major in Mathematics and Secondary Education, previously taught math at Timberlane Regional High School and Brattleboro High School in Vermont.
Powers is a remarkable educator celebrated for her thoughtful, kind, and inspiring approach to teaching, according to Jenny Walker, Dean of Academics for Math at Pinkerton Academy. “By cultivating an environment grounded in motivation and self-efficacy, she empowers learners to engage in collaborative problem-solving and creative exploration,” added Walker.
Dr. Jennifer Resmini, Dean of Faculty at Pinkerton Academy, praised Powers for developing an authentic co-teaching model on Pinkerton’s campus. “Christa has mentored numerous educators, some new to the field, and has been an active educator apprentice mentor, helping many teachers who are on the path of becoming educators to be successful in their journey through courses and on-the-job training,” said Resmini.
As Teacher of the Year, Powers said she will work to strengthen and advance the profession by promoting co-teaching and embedded curriculum.
“Co-teaching allows for students to gain even more individualized support within a classroom,” Powers said in her application essay, adding she is a strong proponent of co-teaching since she learns so much from every classroom she enters. “In front of my class, students need me to be authentic, but having the opportunity to see how other teachers reach a student is incredible. From other experienced educators, I have learned strategies for word problems, seen visual tricks to guide students through a problem, and have had the ability to reflect with someone else.”
According to Ronna HasBrouck, chair of the New Hampshire Teacher of the Year Selection Committee, Powers demonstrates excellence in every aspect of her work and is a wonderful choice to represent the state. “The pure love of education that Christa brings to her craft is evident in everything she undertakes,” said HasBrouck.