Jefferson’s of North Kansas City is pleased to announce that Russell Coleman has been named Jefferson’s 2026 North KC Teacher of the Year! Mr. Coleman teaches history and psychology at Park Hill High School, and has been teaching for three years. Before that, Mr. Coleman served in the Navy, where he mentored sailors who had recently finished high school. His time there inspired him to become a teacher, where he could continue to guide and mentor.
Mr. Coleman was chosen from a highly competitive pool of nominations submitted by students and community members. The contest, launched in honor of National Teachers’ Day on May 5, aims to recognize one of the many deserving educators in the KC metro. Jefferson’s selected Mr. Coleman as the NKC Teacher of the Year for his caring nature.
“Mr. Coleman’s nominators spoke of his continued commitment to betterment,” said Nick Price, franchisee/co-owner, “bettering his students’ lives, his classes, and himself. He works tirelessly to ensure he’s a trusted source of goodness in his students’ lives, and never hesitates to work long hours or take from his own pocket to cover snacks or other needs for his kids. Mr. Coleman embodies everything our communities value in their teachers and leaders, and we’re honored to recognize him for his dedication to the NKC community.”
Coleman will receive a $500 gift card to Jefferson’s, and his achievement will be commemorated on the “Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year” plaque at the North KC restaurant.
“When I look back, it’s really the small moments that stand out and add up over time,” said Mr. Coleman in a statement. “It’s the letters, emails, cards, and quiet conversations from students simply saying, ‘Thank you for being my teacher.’ Those moments may seem simple, but they mean everything. They’re a reminder that the relationships we build matter, and that even on the toughest days, what we do is making a difference.”
Last year was the launch of the Teacher of the Year program, with Lindsey Russell, teacher at Bell Prairie Elementary School, selected as North Kansas City’s 2025 Teacher of the Year.
This year is the sophomore run for the Jefferson’s Teacher of the Year award, launched as a companion program to Jefferson’s Coach of the Year award, which runs in the fall. The teachers’ initiative is open to teachers working with students of any age, and candidates could be nominated by students, parents and guardians of students, school officials, or other community members.