News Summary
Ali Jun, a dedicated music teacher at Tyrone Thompson Elementary School in Las Vegas, has been recognized as the Nevada State Teacher of the Year. The surprise announcement celebrated her 21 years of impactful teaching, especially in music education. Jun will represent educators statewide and aims to enhance education advocacy during her tenure. Known for her engaging teaching style and strong relationships with students, she has positively influenced over 900 learners. Jun’s commitment to music education highlights the essential role of educators in shaping student lives and advocating for improvements within the educational landscape.
Las Vegas – Ali Jun, a dedicated music teacher at Tyrone Thompson Elementary School, has been honored as the 2026 Nevada State Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made during a surprise ceremony at her school, attended by students and faculty, marking a memorable event for the entire school community.
This prestigious award not only recognizes Jun’s exceptional contributions to education but also allows her to engage in a yearlong professional development experience. As the Nevada State Teacher of the Year, she will serve as an ambassador for educators throughout the state, representing their interests and challenges.
With 21 years of teaching experience, Jun has made significant strides in music education. She began her career in Long Island, New York, before relocating to Las Vegas in 2006. Since then, she has played a pivotal role in establishing music programs at three elementary schools within the Las Vegas Valley, including her current position at Thompson Elementary. She is known for leading two choirs, producing musicals, and providing instruction in singing, dancing, and various instruments.
Jun’s excellence in teaching was previously recognized when she received the Milken Educator Award in 2021, an honor bestowed upon outstanding early-to-mid-career educators across the United States. Her commitment to students and her innovative teaching style, characterized by engaging activities and a fun classroom environment, contribute to her effectiveness as an educator.
The surprise announcement of Jun’s award was delivered by Thompson Elementary principal Robert Hinchliffe, igniting a celebratory atmosphere filled with confetti and chants from students. Following the announcement, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo extended his congratulations to Jun, acknowledging her passion for music education and her awareness of the challenges faced by today’s students. Additionally, the state Superintendent of Public Instruction commended Jun for her enthusiastic representation of the teaching profession and her capacity to foster positivity within her school community.
Principal Hinchliffe highlighted the strong relationships Jun has developed with her students, emphasizing that she has positively impacted over 900 students at Thompson Elementary. Her engaging and dynamic teaching style is evident in her classroom, which features posters of famous musicians and playful elements, like silly sunglasses that she wears to greet her students. This approach not only makes learning enjoyable but also emphasizes the importance of music education as a vehicle for teaching teamwork, emotional expression, and cultural appreciation.
In addition to her teaching accomplishments, Jun has articulated several advocacy priorities aimed at improving education in Nevada. These include securing increased funding for schools, enhancing teacher retention, and inspiring her fellow educators across the state. Jun’s vision extends beyond her classroom, as she seeks to do something greater for her colleagues and the education system in Nevada.
The honor of being named the Nevada State Teacher of the Year underscores the vital role educators like Ali Jun play in shaping the lives of their students and advocating for improvements within the educational landscape. As she embarks on this new journey, her commitment to excellence in music education and dedication to her students remain at the forefront of her mission.
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Additional Resources
- Las Vegas Sun
- The Nevada Independent
- KTNV
- Las Vegas Review-Journal
- Broadway.com
- Wikipedia: Teacher of the Year
- Google Search: Nevada education
- Google Scholar: teaching excellence awards
- Encyclopedia Britannica: education
- Google News: nevada teacher awards
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