Teacher Dawn Rheingans of North Scott, Iowa, has garnered 2026 Regional Teacher of the Year honors. Dawn teaches earth science, life science, and physical science at North Scott Middle School. She is one of nine teachers across Iowa being recognized for their impact in the classroom. She was also named as a 2026 Iowa Regional Teacher of the year.

“I am so honored,” Dawn declares. “I look back and I’ve had so many people through my life that have gotten me to this point, supportive parents, I’ve had amazing teachers when I was in school, coaches that believed in me.”

The honored educator reveals that to earn her honor, she was nominated by a co-worker, wrote a couple of essays, and participated in a few interviews.

“It’s just been a really cool experience to reflect back on the past 29 years and how far we’ve come in education,” Dawn says. “All the different students that have crossed my path.”

View the video below to learn more about Dawn.