Many young people believe that success comes only after decades of experience. However, sometimes the first remarkable results are achieved right at the start of one’s journey. Irrefutable proof of this is the impact that dedicated teachers have on rural communities.
The fifth edition of the 2026 Rural Teacher of the Year Gala, organized by Teach for Romania, highlighted the exceptional stories of the best teachers in rural areas. The top awards for this year’s edition were won by:
- 🏆 New Teacher of the Year: Ana-Maria Hanganu – art teacher at “Comandor Alexandru Cătuneanu” High School (Lunca Cetățuii, Iași County).
- 🏆 Educator of the Year: Ana-Maria Stăncălie – preschool teacher at a kindergarten in Dolj County.
- 🏆 Teacher of the Year: Dumitru Eduard Plăvițu – elementary school teacher at Milcoiu Middle School (Vâlcea County).
- 🏆 Principal of the Year: Ana Gavrilescu – principal at Tâmboești Middle School (Vrancea County).
Such exceptional results highlight the importance of schools and educational communities that support teachers’ performance and engagement from their very first projects.
The full story has been covered nationally and can be read here:
👉 Euronews Romania – Rural New Teacher of the Year
Today, young people need not only theoretical information, but also real-life examples of leadership. These role models show us that age or a lack of resources are not insurmountable obstacles, and that a job well done leaves a profound mark on our children’s future.
Smarval aims to promote these people, ideas, and communities that can truly inspire and motivate the new generation.