Missouri Teacher of the Year

Kim Sixta, Ruskin High School Teacher, Named
2026 Missouri Teacher of the Year

Ruskin High School social studies teacher Kim Sixta has been named the 2026 Missouri Teacher of the Year by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), the Hickman Mills C-1 School District announced.

Sixta, who teaches grades 10-12, inspires students to think critically about history, government, and current events. She is known for innovative lessons and her commitment as a mentor. At Ruskin High School, she serves as Social Studies Department Chair, ACT Test Coordinator, and sponsor for National Honor Society, Student Council, and Upward Bound.

“No one person has a greater impact on the success of our children than the teacher who creates the learning environment,” said Commissioner of Education Dr. Karla Eslinger. “Sixta is a wonderful example of excellence. We are grateful to Sixta and all our educators for making a lasting impact on Missouri students beyond the time in the classroom.”

With a passion for education, students, and lifelong learning, Sixta is best known for her immersive simulations and civic-focused instruction, empowering students to explore history, justice, and public policy through meaningful inquiry.

“In my nearly three decades of this work, I have yet to find anyone who produces more magic in the classroom with children who need it most,” HMC-1 Superintendent Dr. Dennis L. Carpenter said. “Ms. Sixta represents the very best of HMC-1 – her passion, dedication, and love for students shine through in everything she does. This honor reflects her extraordinary work in the classroom and is an inspiration to all of us who believe in the power of education.”

She will be honored at the Missouri Teacher of the Year recognition event, hosted by DESE in Columbia, Missouri, on Monday, October 27. The ceremony will recognize Sixta, along with other finalists, semi-finalists, and Regional Teachers of the Year. Following this event, Sixta will represent Missouri in the National Teacher of the Year program.

The Missouri Teacher of the Year program recognizes the efforts of effective teachers who work tirelessly to provide high-quality education to their students. For more information on the Missouri Teacher of the Year program, visit dese.mo.gov.

 

Biography

Kimberly Sixta is a dedicated high school social studies teacher at Ruskin High School in Kansas City, Missouri. With a passion for equity, student voice, and lifelong learning, she has inspired and empowered students for over two decades.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri, graduating Cum Laude. She also holds minors in Anthropology, Theology, and Secondary Education with a History emphasis. While at Avila, she was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the Avila Education Society, and Student Senate. Sixta earned a Master of Science in Education from Avila University and completed coursework in Leadership and Administration in Education at Baker University, successfully passing the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium (ISLLC) exam.

Known for her immersive simulations and civic-focused instruction, Sixta empowers students to explore history, justice, and public policy through meaningful inquiry. Her work has been recognized through honors such as Fox 4’s Teacher of the Month (2023), Excellence in Teaching Award (2018), Student’s Choice Teacher of the Year (2024), Teacher of the Year (2014, 2025), finalist for the Kansas City People’s Choice Educator of the Year (2025), and Missouri Teacher of the Year (2026). She is a three-time 20/20 Leadership Partner of the Year and recipient of the Bronze Pelican Award in Scouting. 

At Ruskin, Sixta serves as Social Studies Department Chair, ACT Test Coordinator, and sponsor for National Honor Society, Student Council, and Upward Bound. She continues to shape education through service, mentorship, and tireless advocacy for student success.