RCSD Music Teacher Anastasia Polashenski Named 2027 New York State Teacher of the Year Finalist

(September 23, 2026) The Rochester City School District proudly congratulates music educator Anastasia Polashenski, who was recently honored in Albany, NY, as a finalist for the prestigious 2027 New York State Teacher of the Year award.

A phenomenal music teacher at Loretta Johnson Middle School, Ms. Polashenski exemplifies the best of the RCSD. Her state-level recognition is an opportunity to celebrate not only her exceptional dedication to her students, but also the outstanding instruction and learning happening across the District every day.

This state honor builds upon Ms. Polashenski’s record of excellence within the District. In May 2025, she was recognized as the Special Area Educator of the Year at the fifth annual Educator of the Year awards ceremony. Launched in 2021 by the RCSD Office of Human Capital, the Educator of the Year awards celebrate staff members, nominated by peers, students, parents, community members, and supervisors, who go above and beyond to deliver meaningful, supportive teaching and learning experiences.

The New York State Teacher of the Year program honors exceptionally skilled, compassionate, and equity-driven educators who inspire excellence and lifelong learning. By celebrating teachers who embody the values of the NYS Portrait of a Graduate, the program highlights inclusive, student-centered learning environments aligned with state priorities, including culturally responsive-sustaining education, whole-child development, and interdisciplinary learning.

Want to see her impact in action? You can watch Ms. Polashenski talk about her passion for music education in her own words in this video.