Senate education leaders congratulate Oklahoma Teacher of the Year, National Teacher of the Year finalist

Senate Education Committee and Appropriations Subcommittee chairman Adam Pugh, along with Education Committee vice chair Sen. Ally Seifried and Education Appropriations Subcommittee vice chair Sen. Kristen Thompson, extended congratulations Friday to 2022 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year Rebecka Peterson, who has been named a finalist for the 2023 National Teacher of the Year by the Council of Chief State Schools Officers.

“We’re so proud of Rebecka for being chosen not only as Oklahoma’s top educator, but as a top-five finalist nationally. Her dedication and passion for helping her students learn is admirable, and a glowing example of the tremendous talent we have in our classrooms around the state. I especially love that she’s helping high school students learn advanced math – knowledge that is desperately needed in many industries today. She is helping shape the minds of our future engineers, scientists, and other professionals. We wish her all the best as she competes for National Teacher of the Year.” – Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond.

“Rebecka is an incredible individual who has dedicated her career to improving the lives of her students and she has touched the lives of so many during her tenure - there is no greater accomplishment, and Oklahoma is very fortunate to have her. We hope her positivity and determination in the classroom inspire her fellow teachers, as well as those looking for a career path.” – Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore.

“Teachers do much more than help students gain knowledge, they help kids chase their dreams and give them the confidence and tools to reach their full potential. Rebecka is changing lives every day, and we are so happy that her outstanding teaching skills and professionalism have been recognized not just in her own community and state, but nationally. We love celebrating our amazing teachers, and this is a well-deserved honor for Mrs. Peterson.” – Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond.

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For more information, contact:  
Sen. Pugh: (405) 521-5622 or Adam.Pugh@oksenate.gov
Sen. Seifried: (405) 521-5555 or Ally.Seifried@oksenate.gov
Sen. Thompson: (405) 521-5592 or Kristen.Thompson@oksenate.gov