2026 Educator of the Year: Susan Wick

This feature was printed in the April 2026 issue of ‘hood Magazine. To see this article in print, check out our digital issue of ‘hood!

Click the link to read all of this year’s nominations for Educator of the Year.

Presented by: The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Vanessa Jo Photography    

Susan Wick 

Blended 1st and 2nd Grade  

Robert Frost Elementary 

Great educators help shape the experiences that build a child’s confidence and love of learning. From teaching foundational skills to encouraging curiosity and perseverance, teachers play a vital role in helping students grow both academically and personally. At the ’hood Magazine, we are proud to recognize those educators who go above and beyond in their classrooms. Along with our sponsors, The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Vanessa Jo Photography, we are honored to announce our 2026 Educator of the Year, Susan Wick! 

Susan Wick teaches a first and second-grade blended classroom at Robert Frost Elementary. She has been an educator for 27 years, spending most of those years in 1st and 2nd-grade classrooms.  

Inspiring Teachers

Susan says her path into education began with her own love of learning and the teachers who inspired her along the way. “I was fortunate to have exceptional teachers who inspired and encouraged me to keep growing, and their influence left a lasting impression on me,” she shares. “Teaching has always felt like the profession I was meant to pursue.” 

Over the years, Susan has found that some of the most rewarding moments come from watching students grow in confidence as learners. “In the primary grades, the progress students make is incredible,” she explains. “Helping students discover that they are capable, curious, and successful learners is what makes this work so meaningful.” 

This year’s blended classroom has provided a special highlight. Susan loved watching first and second graders naturally build a supportive learning community together. “Students quickly realized that everyone brings different strengths to the classroom,” she says. “It’s been really special to watch students step in to help explain ideas, share strategies, and encourage each other along the way.” 

2026 Educator of the Year Award

When surprised with the 2026 Educator of the Year award, Susan described the recognition as both humbling and meaningful. “Teaching is truly a team effort,” she says. “I’m fortunate to work alongside such supportive colleagues, dedicated families, and wonderful students every day.” 

Present to Susan during the surprise was a check from The Bancorp and sensory items from Sanford fit. The students did a great job waiting patiently to dig into the fun new items!  

Susan also emphasizes the importance of community support for education. “When families, schools, and the community work together, students benefit the most,” she says. 

For Susan, education goes far beyond academics. “Education is about building confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime,” she shares. 

And that dedication is exactly why we are proud to recognize Susan Wick as our 2026 Educator of the Year. 

Thanks Again to Our Sponsors