Gateway Science Academy’s Megan Peifer Honored as Regional Teacher of the Year

ST. LOUIS – Megan Peifer of Gateway Science Academy has been named a Regional Teacher of the Year, DESE (The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) announced Tuesday, July 15.

The prestigious list includes 34 teachers who are being recognized for the positive impact excellent teachers have on their students. The educators will represent their regions in the 2026 Missouri Teacher of the Year Program.

Peifer began teaching at GSA in 2013 and currently teaches 5th Grade English Language Arts.

“This recognition is a true reflection of Megan’s exceptional dedication, talent, and impact in the classroom,” said Engin Blackstone, Superintendent of Gateway Science Academy. “She leads with both heart and excellence, and her commitment to her students and our school community is genuinely inspiring. We are incredibly proud to have Megan as part of the GSA family.”

This year, nearly 500 teachers were nominated from 284 school districts across Missouri. From that group, 34 were selected as Regional Teachers of the Year. The next stage of the process will take place in August, when DESE announces the semi-finalists for the 2026 Missouri Teacher of the Year award.