FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SAN TAN VALLEY, AZ – The Arizona Rural Schools Association (ARSA) is proud to announce that Jerald Nez, a math teacher and Math Department Head at Holbrook High School, has been named the 2026 ARSA Rural Teacher of the Year. The award was presented at the ARSA Annual Conference on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the High Country Conference Center in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Jerald proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, where he developed a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and teamwork. As a Navajo educator, he is passionate about helping students build confidence, perseverance, and a belief in their own potential.
In his 11 years of teaching, Jerald has transformed mathematics instruction at Holbrook High School. He conducted action research to create a collaborative space for his students, utilizing whiteboard tables and student-led presentations. He also prioritizes creating an environment for students to feel more comfortable and calm during state testing. He has integrated artificial intelligence into his curriculum to equip students with real-world technical skills, and employs real-time active observation techniques to provide immediate feedback.
Outside the classroom, Jerald enjoys supporting student athletics by organizing community fundraising tournaments, assisting the track and cross country programs with strength and conditioning, and collaborating with coaches to help student athletes reach their goals. He also sponsors the American Indian Science and Engineering Club (AISES). He is grateful for every opportunity to serve his students, school, and community.
Dr. Robert Koerperich, Superintendent of Holbrook USD #3, expressed district-wide pride: “Jerald has worked hard to become a high-quality math teacher who actively engages the students he serves through hands-on learning, collaboration, innovation, and practical application of real world math. He is a wonderful role model for his students and consistently extends himself as a dedicated advocate for Native American students, showing them clear pathways to success. Jerald constantly evolves as a teacher to ensure his teaching practices are meeting the needs of the learners he serves.”
“Jerald truly embodies the motto of HUSD #3: Helping Unique Students Develop!” Koerperich continued. “Holbrook Unified School District #3 is extremely proud of Mr. Nez and his well-deserved accomplishment as the Arizona Rural Schools Association Teacher of the Year.”
“Mr. Nez represents the absolute gold standard of rural education,” said Dr. Gregory Wyman, Executive Director of ARSA. “His dedication to creating active innovative learning environments, paired with his commitment to student success inside and outside the classroom, makes him an outstanding representative for Arizona’s rural educators.”
ARSA invites rural advocates to join them in celebrating this outstanding educator. Jerald will go on to represent Arizona in the National Rural Education Association’s National Rural Teacher of the Year competition next year.
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The Arizona Rural Schools Association (ARSA) advocates for quality public education in rural communities throughout Arizona, supporting educators, school leaders, and students through advocacy, professional development, and annual recognition programs.
