Region 15 is proud to announce that Geri-Ann Ristow has been named the 2026 Region 15 Teacher of the Year. A dynamic and passionate educator whose career has spanned three decades, Ms. Ristow exemplifies the dedication, heart, and excellence that define the teaching profession in Region 15.

Photo: Geri Ann Ristow, 2026 Region 15 Teacher of the Year, with Dr. Carrie Chiappetta (Assistant Superintendent), Joshua Smith (Superintendent), Emily Gervasio (Rochambeau Assistant Principal), and Michael J. Bernardi (RMS Principal)
 

Ms. Ristow began her career as a physical education teacher in Windsor, CT before joining Region 15 in 1995. She has served students at Pomperaug High School, Pomperaug Elementary School, and the Alternative Education program. Since 2006, she has been a full-time physical education teacher at Rochambeau Middle School (RMS), where her impact extends far beyond the gymnasium. She is known as a mentor, coach, leader, and tireless advocate for all students.

Her colleagues describe her as the “heartbeat of RMS,” someone whose enthusiasm, inclusivity, and genuine joy set the tone for the school community. Whether she’s running beside students during PE class, organizing after-school enrichment programs, or leading birthday parades and staff morale events through the Sunshine Committee, Ms. Ristow brings energy and compassion to everything she does.

As an Adaptive PE teacher, Ms. Ristow works closely with special education staff to design engaging, inclusive experiences for students with diverse needs. She is a daily, joyful presence in life skills classrooms, where her warmth and encouragement help every student feel supported, included, and celebrated.

Her professional contributions reach well beyond RMS. She has presented at state and national education conferences and, in 2017, was recognized as Connecticut's PE Teacher of the Year by the CT Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (CTAHPERD).

"Ms. Ristow has demonstrated exceptional dedication, passion, and leadership throughout her years of service to Region15," said Michael J. Bernardi, Principal of Rochambeau Middle School. "Her passion for teaching is evident in every lesson that she teaches—she is a true advocate for each and every student and a perfect ambassador for each and every teacher. We are blessed to call Ms. Ristow a friend, mentor, and colleague at RMS.”

"Ms. Ristow is the kind of educator who transforms a school community through her passion, energy, and heart," said Joshua Smith, Superintendent of Schools for Region 15. "Her unwavering commitment to students and colleagues, her creativity, and her joyful spirit make her not only an outstanding teacher but a true leader and role model. We are incredibly proud to honor her as our Teacher of the Year and as a representative of the excellence in teaching that defines Region 15.” 

About the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program:
Established in 1952, the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program honors excellence in teaching each year. Sponsored by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) in partnership with the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, the program invites each school district to select a local Teacher of the Year. From this group, one educator is chosen to represent Connecticut in the National Teacher of the Year Program, the oldest and most prestigious national honor for educators, administered by the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO).

Four Connecticut teachers have gone on to be named National Teachers of the Year.

Beyond recognition, the program provides opportunities for finalists and semi-finalists to engage in professional development, attend conferences, and collaborate with educators across the state, sharing insights and best practices.

To learn more about the program, visit the Connecticut Teacher of the Year website.