MISHICOT, Wis. (WFRV) – What began as a day off quickly turned into a once-in-a-career moment for Lisa Van Hefty, a dedicated special education teacher at O.H. Schultz Elementary School in Mishicot.
On Friday morning, Van Hefty walked into a surprise school assembly only to be named one of Wisconsin’s 2026 Teachers of the Year. The recognition was presented by State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly in front of a crowd of students, staff, and her family.
“When my name was called it just kind of took me back, took my breath away actually,” Van Hefty said. “Very unexpected. I just do my job.”
Van Hefty has spent her entire 27-year teaching career at O.H. Schultz Elementary, advocating for inclusive education and championing the needs of students with disabilities.
“She nailed it—it’s about inclusion, it’s about making every kid belong,” said Underly. “Being a special education teacher is a lot of hard work, and Lisa’s commitment shows why these roles are so vital.”
Fellow teachers praised Van Hefty as a leader and tireless advocate.
“She’s here every single day, putting in the fight, loving on these kids, and making our school a better place,” said colleague Brittni Buyeske.
Van Hefty says her mission has always been simple: make every student feel valued.
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“Just include them. They are people just like us,” she said. “They want to be seen, they want to be heard, they want to be treated like everyone else. It’s our responsibility as citizens and community members to do that for them.”
Van Hefty is one of five educators statewide honored with the 2026 Wisconsin Teacher of the Year title.
