Meet Colleen Keough, the 2025 NYS Teacher of the Year

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. ( NEWS10 ) – A 2 ^nd grade teacher at Hamilton Elementary School in the Schenectady City School District was recently named the 2025 New York State Teacher of the Year. In her 16-year teaching career, Colleen Keough has inspired not only her students but her fellow educators to be the best versions of themselves.

Keough started as a 1 ^st grade teacher at Paige Elementary School, went on to teach 4 ^th grade at Hamilton Elementary School before moving to 2 ^nd grade at Hamilton. During her career, befriending and mentoring some of her fellow educators along the way. In her interview with NEWS10, Keough credited her colleagues for her success in her role as a teacher.

“She makes sure that everybody knows that they’re loved, that is first and foremost,” said Mr. Rossler, her colleague. “She does not know the impact that she causes and the ripple effect that what she’s done for students and families affects them for the rest of their life.”

Keough was recognized in the past as the 2024 Schenectady City School District Teacher of the Year Award and the 2023 Schenectady City School District Passionate Educator Award. Keough will serve as the state’s nominee for the National Teacher of the Year program. A winner will be announced in the spring.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NEWS10 ABC.