From Seattletimes · · 1m 20s
Kori Cannon Named 2027 WA Teacher of the Year
Kori Cannon, a Kennewick kindergarten teacher, wins Washington’s 2027 Teacher of the Year award after reshaping family involvement in public education.
In brief
Kori Cannon, a Kennewick kindergarten teacher, wins Washington’s 2027 Teacher of the Year award after reshaping family involvement in public education. Kori Cannon, a multilingual learner kindergarten teacher at Westgate Elementary School, was named Washington’s 2027 Teacher of the Year for her work with students from…
Kori Cannon Wins 2027 WA Teacher of the Year
Kori Cannon, a multilingual learner kindergarten teacher at Westgate Elementary School, was named Washington’s 2027 Teacher of the Year.
“A Kennewick educator whose enthusiasm and work has helped reshape family involvement in public education was named Washington’s 2027 Teacher of the Year.”
Second Consecutive Tri-Cities Winner
Cannon is the second educator in a row from the Tri-Cities to win Washington’s Teacher of the Year award.
“It’s the second year in a row that a Tri-Cities teacher has taken home the state’s top award for excellence in education.”
Superintendent’s Praise
State Superintendent Lance Hansen called Cannon’s work a 'proud moment' for the district and educators.
“Superintendent Lance Hansen said he was 'so happy' to see Cannon recognized over the weekend, and called it a 'proud moment' for the district and its educators.”
16-Year Career Impact
Cannon has helped students from 22 countries build confidence and communication skills throughout her 16-year career.
“Throughout her 16-year career, she has helped students originally from 22 countries build confidence, communication skills and independence while partnering with families.”
Beacon in District
Traci Ronck-Curry, Westgate’s assistant principal, called Cannon a 'beacon in our district' with infectious enthusiasm.
“Traci Ronck-Curry, assistant principal at Westgate Elementary, said Cannon’s 'infectious enthusiasm' makes students want to come to school.”
Home Visit Program Transformation
Cannon led the transformation of Westgate’s Kindergarten Home Visit program to improve family communication and learning outcomes.
“She is also behind the transformation of the Westgate’s Kindergarten Home Visit program, which encourages teachers to visit their students’ homes and establish a connection with the family, making for seamless communication to ensure the best learning outcomes for children.”
National Recognition Path
Cannon will represent Washington at the National Teacher of the Year event and compete for the 2027 national award.
“Cannon will serve as a teacher-of-residence from January through June, attend a leadership retreat, get continuing professional development throughout the year, speak at events and advocate for educational issues of interest to her.”
The one thing
Kori Cannon, a multilingual learner kindergarten teacher at Westgate Elementary School, was named Washington’s 2027 Teacher of the Year for her work with students from 22 countries.





