Pasco Educator Named ESD 123 Regional Teacher Of The Year (Photo) -06/02/25

Pasco, WA – Educational Service District 123 is proud to announce that Gabriela Whitemarsh, a bilingual mathematics teacher at Pasco High School, has been selected as the 2026 ESD 123 Regional Teacher of the Year. Whitemarsh will now represent Southeast Washington in the state-level Washington Teacher of the Year program, hosted by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.

 

A proud product of the Pasco community, Whitemarsh has dedicated her career to expanding access and opportunity for multilingual learners. Her passion for equity, innovation, and student-centered teaching has transformed the educational landscape for students who are often underrepresented in advanced coursework.

 

Whitemarsh is the founder of the Advanced Multilingual Mathematics Program (HiCap L1 Math Program) at Pasco High School - an initiative that opens doors to college-level mathematics for newcomer students who previously lacked access to these pathways. Since the program’s inception, 92 students have completed advanced math courses, and 41 have earned between 5 and 20 college math credits, all while continuing their English language development in a supportive, bilingual environment.

 

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

 

Whitemarsh’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. She serves as the Multilingual Department Chair and bilingual facilitator at Pasco High School, and regularly provides professional development to her colleagues on culturally responsive teaching and equitable practices. Her mentorship has inspired students and teachers alike, and her impact can be felt throughout 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 celebrates educators who exhibit exceptional teaching skills and provides them with a platform to advocate for educational issues close to their hearts. Award recipients like Whitemarsh have the opportunity to participate in leadership retreats and other professional development opportunities and may be invited to serve as trainers or speakers in regional school districts.

 

Whitemarsh’s achievement as a regional winner now positions her to compete against eight other finalists from Educational Service Districts across Washington State for the title of 2026 State Teacher of the Year. The Washington Teacher of the Year program, overseen by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), recognizes educators who demonstrate exemplary teaching practices and make a significant impact on students’ lives. The State Teacher of the Year represents Washington at national events, including leadership conferences and recognition week in Washington, D.C., and serves as the Teacher-in-Residence for OSPI from January to June.

 

Learn more: https://ospi.k12.wa.us/educator-support/awards-recognition/educator-awards/teacher-year