The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) announced that Allison Urban, Special Education Teacher at Pilgrim Park Middle School in Elm Grove, WI, has been named a 2026 Wisconsin Teacher of the Year! This recognition marks a proud moment for Pilgrim Park Middle School, the Elmbrook Schools, and the broader Wisconsin education community.
“Allison exemplifies the very best of student-centered teaching,” stated Principal Kelly Szesterniak. “Her compassion, expertise, and commitment to helping every learner feel valued and capable have made a lasting impact on students, families, and staff. This honor is a testament to her dedication and excellence in the field of special education.”
Urban was surprised and honored during a whole-school assembly on Monday, May 11, 2026, as Pilgrim Park Middle School gathered to celebrate being named a 2026 Wisconsin School of Recognition. The celebration became even more memorable when State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly announced Urban as one of Wisconsin’s Teachers of the Year.
A veteran Special Education Teacher with more than 16 years of experience, Urban currently serves 8th-grade students at Pilgrim Park Middle School. Throughout her career, she has supported middle school students with diverse academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. She brings strong expertise in co-teaching, differentiated instruction, and the development of individualized supports that help students build independence and confidence.
Ms. Urban is widely recognized as a compassionate educator who builds meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues. Colleagues describe her as a resilient and dedicated professional who leads with empathy, models effective strategies for others, and consistently creates learning environments where all students feel capable of success.
In addition to her classroom impact, Urban has served as a department chair and mentor to fellow educators, supporting best practices in special education and collaborative instruction. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment not only to her students, but also to strengthening the professional practice of those around her.
“On behalf of Pilgrim Park Middle School and the entire School District of Elmbrook, we are thrilled to celebrate Allison Urban with this well-deserved honor,” said Dr. Mark Hansen, Superintendent of the School District of Elmbrook. “We are incredibly proud of Allison’s contributions to our students, staff, and school community.”
The Teachers of the Year are selected from the 100 Herb Kohl Educational Foundation Teacher Fellowship award honorees across Wisconsin who receive a $6,000 grant, with each recipient’s school also receiving a matching $6,000 grant to support student learning and school initiatives. Each year, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction selects five Teachers of the Year to represent elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, and special services. Through an interview process, one of the five honorees is selected to represent Wisconsin in the National Teacher of the Year program. DPI recognizes all five honorees as Teachers of the Year and does not give a special designation to the individual selected for national consideration.
Congratulations, Ms. Urban!
