Teacher of the Year
Teacher of the Year 2026
Dr. Daniel Cortright
The Westport Public Schools proudly announces the selection of Dr. Daniel Cortright as Westport’s 2026 Teacher of the Year. Dr. Cortright, an eighth grade science teacher at Bedford Middle School (BMS), was unanimously chosen for this honor by a committee of his peers from across the district.
Now entering his 15th year of teaching in Westport, Dr. Cortright brings a unique depth of experience to the classroom. Before joining the district, he spent nearly 15 years in science research, earning a doctorate in biological chemistry and contributing to advancements that helped patients manage conditions such as multiple myeloma. His transition to teaching reflects his belief that the greatest impact he could make would be through inspiring and guiding young learners.
The nominations submitted on Dr. Cortright’s behalf highlight both his exceptional teaching and his unwavering commitment to students. One nomination captures his impact particularly well:
Beyond the classroom, Dan dedicates countless hours to supporting our Science Olympiad team. He mentors students with patience and enthusiasm, helping them build confidence, skills, and a passion for science. Perhaps most importantly, he builds genuine relationships with students who may not otherwise feel connected to school, offering them support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
Dr. Cortright’s influence extends far beyond his curriculum. Former students regularly return to visit—and many continue to work alongside him in supporting the Science Olympiad team—because of the encouragement and belief he instilled in them. This ongoing connection is a testament to the profound and lasting impact he has on the lives of his students.
In Dan’s reflection on being honored as Westport’s 2026 Teacher of the Year, he wrote:
Implementing these ideas has not always been easy: Some students stubbornly refuse to do work without constant teacher direction. Some students get easily distracted by social concerns. Many students experience some type of failure along the way. However, it is my sense that most students - given enough time and coaching - ultimately attain much greater levels of self-agency and much greater confidence in their own ability to grasp concepts and solve problems.
There is no doubt that Dan’s patience and supportive approach to teaching has motivated the next generation scientists and problem solvers who will make a difference in their future lives. As such, he is the perfect educator to serve as Westport’s 2026 Teacher of the Year!
For more information on the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program, please visit The CT Department of Education.