Colony High School Celebrates Dr. Jamin Burton as 2027 Alaska Teacher of the Year

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 7, 2026

Palmer, Alaska - In a surprise early morning assembly at Colony High School, the Department of Education and Early Development presented Dr. Jamin Burton, a music teacher, with the honor of being named the 2027 Alaska Teacher of the Year.

"Dr. Burton represents the very best of Alaska's educators," said Commissioner Dr. Deena Bishop. "For more than two decades, he has created meaningful opportunities for students through music, leadership, and service. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and student relationships has left a lasting impact not only at Colony High School, but across Alaska. We are proud to recognize Dr. Burton as the 2026-2027 Alaska Teacher of the Year and celebrate the extraordinary difference he continues to make in the lives of students."

Dr. Burton has taught music at Colony High School since 2004, building an accomplished and nationally recognized high school music program. Throughout his career, he has developed and led a wide range of music courses, including percussion, orchestra, AP music theory, and marching band, while also directing jazz band, concert band, symphonic band, and guitar instruction.

Under his leadership, Colony's marching band and music students have performed across the United States and internationally, representing Alaska in New York City, Washington, D.C., Boston, Indianapolis, New Orleans, Los Angeles, Honolulu, Dublin, and Normandy. Dr. Burton is widely recognized for creating meaningful opportunities for students through music, leadership, travel, and performance experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.

A respected educator statewide, Dr. Burton's previous honors include being named a Grammy Music Educator Award Quarterfinalist in 2019, British Petroleum (BP) Teacher of the Year in 2009, and twice being selected as one of School Band and Orchestra Magazine's "50 Directors Who Make a Difference." Dr. Burton holds degrees from Brigham Young University (B.M.), the University of Alaska Anchorage (M.Ed.), and William Howard Taft University (Ed.D.). He lives in Wasilla with his wife Jennifer and their five children. He says his favorite part of teaching in Alaska is "building relationships with students and watching them accomplish amazing things."

Each year, Alaskans nominate outstanding educators from across the state. Finalists are selected based on a wide range of criteria, including instructional excellence and community engagement. One is chosen as the Teacher of the Year, and another as the Alternate Teacher of the Year, Angela Coelho from Kenai Peninsula Borough School District.

Alaska's Teacher of the Year participates in professional development programs offered by the Council of Chief State School Officers, joining fellow honorees from across the country. Additionally, they represent Alaska as a candidate for the National Teacher of the Year award.

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The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development provides information, resources, and leadership to support over 130,000 students in 505 public schools across the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to ensure an "Excellent Education for Every Student Every Day."

Media Contact: Bryan Zadalis, Public Information Officer - (907) 465-2800