Shawna Wilson Receives the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences
2026 National Teacher of the Year Award
Shakopee Public Schools Educator Recognized for Innovative Teaching
February 12, 2026
Shakopee Public Schools Educator, Shawna Wilson, was recently recognized as the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) 2026 National Teacher of the Year Awards for her program submission titled, The Capstone Experience: From Awareness to Action – Cultivating Leaders and Creating Change.
This national award recognizes exemplary educators who use innovative methods, techniques and learning experiences to elevate family and consumer sciences (FCS) in elementary and secondary education.
Wilson has received multiple honors, including the 2026 Minnesota Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (MAFCS) Teacher of the Year award and recognition as a 2021 Minnesota Teacher of the Year semifinalist.
Wilson brings 19 years of experience designing authentic, student-centered learning experiences that prepare students for college, career and community impact. She teaches Exploring Education and Multicultural Education, integrating college credit opportunities, field-based practice and community partnerships. A former instructional coach and AVID site coordinator, Wilson is widely recognized for sustainable and innovative program development, collaborative leadership and elevating education as a vital career pathway.
“Wilson has a profound and lasting influence on students’ lives, especially those navigating system barriers,” shared Shakopee High School Assistant/Academy Principal, Sarah Jordan. “Wilson’s instruction reflects a sophisticated integration of creativity, innovation and cutting-end instructional practices, firmly grounded in Minnesota State Standards and National FCS Standards.”
Through sequenced coursework, field experiences and client-based projects, students develop self-awareness, collaboration and leadership skills under Wilson’s leadership. Using the Authentic Learning process, students build strong community connections and initiate change where it matters most — in their own community. This forward-thinking approach emphasizes action, partnership and impact.
“Our FCS program is a vital part of our school community,” Wilson shared. “This year (2025-26), more than 1,922 students are enrolled across 14 FCS courses at Shakopee High School, including 62 students in Exploring Education and 33 students in Multicultural Education. Enrollment remains strong and stable in the Human Services Academy, including the Education Pathway.”
Shakopee High School student Lily Fausett shared how the pathway influenced her future plans:
“The Education Pathway courses gave me a strong understanding of child development, teaching methods and classroom management. Through hands-on experiences, such as classroom observations, I was able to see what teaching is really like and confirm my interest in working with children. These experiences showed me how important teachers are in supporting students’ learning and growth, especially during early and important stages of development.”
Wilson holds a master’s degree in Family Education and is a Certified FCS educator. Wilson also serves as an Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) adviser and Shakopee Public Schools’ Grow Your Own Grant Coordinator, overseeing a Minnesota Department of Education grant focused on expanding and diversifying the teacher pipeline.
