2026 TERESA PFISTER
TEACHER OF THE YEAR
2026 Teacher of the Year
Tracie Kogler
Aviara Oaks Middle School
Carlsbad, California
Tracie Kogler is an exceptional educator whose passion, creativity, and dedication have transformed the Broadcast and Filmmaking program at Aviara Oaks Middle School into a model of excellence. With more than 16 years in education, she has inspired countless students to find their voices through storytelling, journalism, and digital media.
Known for creating authentic, hands-on learning experiences, Tracie equips students with professional-level media production skills while fostering confidence, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Her classroom is a place where students are challenged to grow, encouraged to take risks, and empowered to discover their unique talents.
Beyond teaching technical skills, Tracie is a mentor, advocate, and role model whose unwavering commitment to her students leaves a lasting impact. Through her encouragement, leadership, and belief in every student's potential, she inspires young people to pursue their passions, embrace new opportunities, and become thoughtful creators, confident communicators, and future leaders.
ABOUT THE AWARD
The STN Teacher of the Year will be recognized for dedication to the profession and a high level of achievement in all areas of teaching broadcast journalism, film or media. This teacher must also display creative and media skills, classroom effectiveness and strong leadership. Judges will look for sincerity of effort, creativity, technical proficiency, professionalism and integrity.
Accomplishments inside and outside the classroom will be taken into consideration, as well as support for STN and the mission of the organization. Produced pieces, internet links, written support documents and letters of recommendation will all be considered.
The winner will receive a $1,000.00 scholarship for their program, a plaque, and an invitation to attend the annual STN Convention for professional development. STN will provide up to an additional $1,000 to cover the cost of airfare, hotel room, meals and full convention registration.
AWARD HISTORY
This award was made possible through the generosity and support of Teresa Pfister, who helped organize the first STN Convention and who played a key role in the development of the organization. In 2012, Ms. Pfister joined the STN Board of Directors, Midwest Region. The award honors teachers, Student Television Network and the STN Convention which is unique in bringing together industry professionals, teachers and students to encourage media excellence.
In October 2017, Ms. Pfister passed away from complications of cancer. The STN Board elected to continue this honor in her name as a lasting tribute to the outstanding contribution she made.