Merci Ames, a science teacher at Strasburg High School, has been named Colorado’s 2027 Teacher of the Year, according to an announcement by the Colorado Department of Education on Thursday.
Ames has dedicated 35 years to teaching and is also the coach for both the varsity and junior varsity basketball teams. She plays a vital role in her school as the sponsor for the HOSA-Future Health Professionals student organization within the Strasburg School District 31J, located roughly an hour east of Denver.
“She brings warmth, demand, purpose, and unwavering dedication to her classroom and the entire school community, leading through the small, often unseen acts that change lives,” said Strasburg Superintendent Kelle Bongard. This sentiment was shared when Ames was initially recognized as one of the finalists for the award. Bongard emphasized Ames’ consistent commitment to excellence in her teaching and her selfless contribution to her students’ well-being.
Ames was selected from a pool of eight finalists for the Teacher of the Year award. As part of her recognition, she will receive a $5,000 gift from the Boettcher Foundation, continuing education credit from Adams State University, and a scholarship that she can award to a student of her choice.
In her role as Colorado’s Teacher of the Year, Ames will also represent the state in the National Teacher of the Year competition, which underscores her influence beyond local borders. Her official term begins in January, succeeding the current titleholder, Stephen Paulson, a social studies teacher at Greeley Central High School, who holds the title for 2026.
