History teacher from Pennsylvania named 2026 National Teacher of the Year

NEW YORK (CBS, KYMA) - A history educator from Pennsylvania has been crowned the 2026 National Teacher of the Year.

Leon Smith has spent his entire 25-year career at Haverford High School, where he currently teaches AP History and AP African American Studies.

In a CBS mornings exclusive, the father of two and freshman basketball coach got a heartwarming surprise from one of his heroes, Sixers legend Julius "Dr. Jay" Erving, and gave advice to other educators trying to make a difference.

"I just think it's important to care about your students and let them know that you care. Every day we always start my class with a circle, we always come together and just ask questions...'What's your favorite song? What did you have for dinner last night?' Just connecting on that level," Smith expressed.

The Council of Chief State School officers selected Smith as this year's winner.

Smith will spend the next year serving as an ambassador for education and an advocate for teachers and students across the country.