MSMS mathematics teacher Lauren Zarandona was named 2026’s Mississippi Teacher of the Year by the Mississippi Department of Education at the Mississippi Administrator and Teacher of the Year Awards program in Jackson on April 17.
The prestigious honor also comes with supplementary awards including the ability to serve on the state Teacher of the Year Selection Committee, the opportunity to speak at various conferences, and a one-time $5,000 salary supplement.
With her award, Zarandona said she feels MSMS teachers finally are being recognized for their work…