2026 Teacher of the Year

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2026 Teacher of the Year

Lawton Public Schools teachers and support staff were recognized at the annual Lawton Public Schools Celebration on April 3, 2026. Pictured from left to right: Larissa Krusinsky, a teacher at Central Middle School, was named Secondary Teacher of the Year; Melanie Russell, a teacher at Brockland Learning Center, was named Elementary Teacher of the Year; John Cullison, who teaches at Life Ready Center, was named First Class Teacher of the Year; and Cassondra Green, cafeteria manager at Life Ready Center, was named Support Staff of the Year.

First Year 2026 Teacher of the Year: Mr. John Cullison

Life Ready Center

2026 Elementary Teacher of the Year: Melanie Russell

Brockland Learning Center

Throughout my 20 plus years of service of meeting the needs of our youth, I have seen lots of change. Each year is different. The kids' needs are still the same, but each year I learn more and more from each student as well as their parents. I have taught ESL, pre-k in a daycare setting, second grade, third grade, traditional and virtual kindergarten and now currently pre-k.

I have learned so much from each one of my students that have been blessed enough to be in my classroom and I am blessed to have been their teacher. I tell each one that they are a part of my heart because they forever will be.

Thank you so much for your continued support of educators and believing in public education. Each grade level has varied needs, but being able to have support and encouragement from community leaders is essential and appreciated. Thank you so very much.

2026 Secondary Teacher of the Year: Larissa Krusinsky

Central Middle School

I became a teacher because education has always been important to me. My parents have always instilled that in us. Many people have poured themselves into me and I wanted to give back.

The "pay it forward" phrase really does mean something to me. People invested in me so I wanted to do my part and invest in others. What better way than through teaching? I can touch many lives.

Being able to have relationships with my students and their families makes me excited to be a teacher. Building relationships is very important to me and I want students and families to know that I'm here for them.