Pasco High School Teacher Named 2026 ESD 123 Regional Teacher of the Year

Pasco School District is proud to celebrate Gabriela Whitemarsh, a bilingual mathematics teacher at Pasco High School, who has been named the 2026 Regional Teacher of the Year by Educational Service District 123. Whitemarsh will now go on to represent Southeast Washington in the Washington State Teacher of the Year program, hosted by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

A proud graduate of Pasco schools and a dedicated educator, Whitemarsh has devoted her career to expanding access and opportunity for multilingual learners. Her commitment to equity, innovation, and student-centered instruction has transformed math education for students who are often underrepresented in advanced coursework.

Whitemarsh is the visionary behind Pasco High School’s Advanced Multilingual Mathematics Program (HiCap L1 Math Program), a groundbreaking initiative that opens doors to college-level mathematics for newcomer students while supporting their English language development in a bilingual environment. Since its inception, 92 students have completed advanced math courses through the program, and 41 students have earned between 5 and 20 college math credits.

“Gabriela Whitemarsh is an individual who values innovation, equity, collaboration, and excellence in education for every student,” said Veronica Machado, Principal of Pasco High School. “Her passion and dedication are unmatched, and she has left an indelible impact on her students, her colleagues, and our entire school community.”

Beyond her work in the classroom, Whitemarsh serves as the Multilingual Department Chair and bilingual facilitator at Pasco High School. She also leads professional development in culturally responsive teaching and equitable instructional practices, mentoring both students and fellow educators across the district.

“Her passion, creativity, and dedication to educational equity embody what it means to be a teacher-leader,” said ESD 123 Superintendent Steve McCullough. “We are honored to have Gabriela represent our region and know she will continue to make an extraordinary impact.”

The Regional Teacher of the Year program honors educators who demonstrate outstanding teaching practices and a strong commitment to student success. Regional winners are invited to participate in leadership retreats and statewide professional learning opportunities. They may also be called upon to serve as speakers, facilitators, and advocates within their districts and across the state.

As a regional honoree, Whitemarsh will now compete with eight other regional finalists for the title of 2026 Washington State Teacher of the Year. The state winner will represent Washington at national events, including Teacher of the Year recognition week in Washington, D.C., and will serve as Teacher-in-Residence at OSPI from January through June.

Pasco School District congratulates Gabriela Whitemarsh on this well-deserved recognition and is proud to support her continued leadership in education.