Lewiston Teacher Named Finalist for National History Teacher of the Year

The Maine Department of Education congratulates Donna Olsen, a history teacher at Lewiston High School and Maine’s 2026 History Teacher of the Year, as one of 10 finalists for the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History’s 2026 National History Teacher of the Year Award. Olsen’s advancement to the final stage of this prestigious national award demonstrates her dedication to Lewiston High School students, the Lewiston community, and history education across Maine.

Olsen was selected as Maine’s History Teacher of the Year in spring 2026 from a nationwide pool of more than 9,000 nominated educators. She advanced for national consideration alongside the History Teachers of the Year representing all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. territories. Her selection as one of 10 national finalists placed her among the country’s most highly recognized K–12 history educators.

The national award was ultimately presented to Aditi Mehta Doshi of Los Angeles, California. Olsen’s place among the 10 finalists is a significant national honor and a chance to celebrate her dedication to students and history education in Maine.

Olsen’s recognition reflects her commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences for students at Lewiston High School. Through history education, students learn to examine primary and secondary sources, evaluate evidence, consider multiple perspectives, and develop informed interpretations of people and events. These experiences help students understand how the past continues to influence their communities, the nation, and the wider world.

As Maine’s 2026 History Teacher of the Year, Olsen received a $1,000 honorarium and a curated collection of American history books and educational materials from the Gilder Lehrman Institute for her school. She will also be recognized at a local ceremony.

Nominations for Maine’s 2027 History Teacher of the Year open in early 2027. Students, parents, colleagues, and supervisors are encouraged to nominate outstanding teachers of history for this significant recognition. To learn more about the History Teacher of the Year Award, or to view the full list of 2026 state honorees and 10 finalists, visit the Gilder Lehrman Institute website.

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