2026
State Teacher of the Year

Kimberly Sixta

State/Territory:

Missouri

Content Area:

Social Studies

Grade:

10-12

Biography:

Kimberly Sixta is a dedicated high school social studies teacher at Ruskin High School in Kansas City, Missouri. With a passion for equity, student voice and lifelong learning, she has inspired and empowered students for more than two decades.

Sixta earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri, graduating cum laude. She also holds minors in anthropology, theology and secondary education with a history emphasis. While at Avila, she was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the Avila Education Society and student senate. Sixta earned a Master of Science in education from Avila University and completed coursework in leadership and administration in education at Baker University, successfully passing the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium exam.

Known for her immersive simulations and civic-focused instruction, Sixta empowers students to explore history, justice and public policy through meaningful inquiry. Her work has been recognized through honors such as WDAF-TV's Teacher of the Month (2023), Excellence in Teaching Award (2018), Student’s Choice Teacher of the Year (2024), Hickman Mills C-1 School District Teacher of the Year (2014, 2025) and finalist for the Kansas City People’s Choice Educator of the Year (2025). She is a three-time 20/20 Leadership Partner of the Year and recipient of the Bronze Pelican Award in Scouting. At Ruskin, Sixta serves as social studies department chair, ACT test coordinator and sponsor for the National Honor Society, Student Council and Upward Bound. She continues to shape education through service, mentorship and tireless advocacy for student success.

State teacher biographies were contributed by individual teachers.
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