Two Wauwatosa East High School educators have been named 2026 Herb Kohl Educational Foundation Teacher Fellows, one of Wisconsin's most prestigious honors for classroom excellence.
Jon Etter, English teacher, and Michael Hayden, Director of Orchestras, were selected from among hundreds of candidates statewide for their exceptional leadership, ability to inspire a love of learning, and skill as agents for positive change in their school community.
Each fellowship recipient receives a one-time $6,000 award, and their school receives a matching grant of an additional $6,000 to enhance learning. That means East High School will receive $12,000 in combined grant funding as a result of this recognition.
Each year, 100 educators across Wisconsin are selected as Herb Kohl Fellowship recipients. Public school recipients are also automatically entered into consideration to become a Wisconsin Teacher of the Year, with five teachers ultimately selected statewide and one chosen as Wisconsin's nominee to the National Teacher of the Year program.
"This is such a well-deserved honor, and I couldn't be happier for you," said East High School Principal Dr. Steve Plank in a message to the honorees. "Your dedication, passion, and impact in the classroom truly make a difference. Your students are incredibly lucky to have you, and this recognition reflects the positive influence you have every day."
The Herb Kohl Teacher Fellowship celebrates and supports outstanding educators who demonstrate excellence and innovation in Wisconsin, empowering teachers to achieve their goals, whether for their classrooms or their own professional growth.
The fellowships are co-sponsored by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, Wisconsin Cooperative Educational Service Agencies, and the Wisconsin Newspaper Association Foundation.