Kurt Russell

2022 Ohio Teacher of the Year /2022 National Teacher of the Year

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

At the end of every school year, I read the personal notes my students leave behind. This one reminded me why honest conversations about race and oppression matter.

Education isn’t about comfort—it’s about understanding, empathy, and preparing informed citizens.

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Congratulations to John on his decision to attend my alma mater, The College of Wooster! Excited to see him study history with hopes of one day, perhaps, becoming a teacher.

John has a bright future and I cannot wait to see all he accomplish. @WoosterEdu

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Congratulations to Savannah for being selected as this year’s recipient of the Kurt Russell Scholarship through the Community Foundation of Lorain County! Savannah is a tremendous student with a bright future.

Proud of you, Savannah!

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Special thanks to @CLE_State for this incredible honor of receiving an honorary degree. I am truly humbled and grateful for this recognition and for every educator who continues to pour positivity into students.

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

It’s been a year since I met Elmo and I’m still wondering… did Elmo become a teacher? 😂

I’d like to think I was at least a decent mentor along the way. https://t.co/XXrYmxGZCK

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Today is Black Teacher Appreciation Day.

Many thanks to all Black educators who make a difference in the lives of all students each and every day. Your impact makes a difference in the lives of every student that you serve. @CenterBlackEd

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Grateful for the opportunity to visit Port Clinton and deliver my keynote, “Many Rivers to Cross,” centered on the power of relationships and rigor.

Thankful to Joe Miller for the invitation and the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful educational PD. @PrincipalPCHS

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

At last night’s sports banquet, the team gave me this definition of “Coach.”

If I’ve come anywhere close to living up to these words, then I’m doing something right.

Humbled to have a small part in these young men’s lives.

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

👏🏿👏🏿

[Curtis Valentine @curtiseveryday]

“We can’t fix the male educator shortage by nibbling around the edges, we have to reform the system! That’s what I’m building with my new organization!”

Salute the @NationalGYO for sponsoring panel on “How to Get More Men in Teaching.”

@kurtsenior_ @aibm_org
@RealMenTeach2

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Excited for Ruby, who will be attending my alma mater, The College of Wooster!

I like to think my constant talking about how great Wooster is finally paid off! @WoosterEdu

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

In Oberlin, we truly live history.

Honored to have attended the Margaret E. Barnes commemorative program highlighting her legacy and the historic contributions of the Six Triple Eight.

Their courage reminds us why the next generation must learn the full story of our history.

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

With less than 2% of educators being Black men, It was an honor to spend time with the 2026 DC and Pennsylvania State Teachers of the Year.

Representation matters.

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Her little steps were heavy with injustice and humiliation.

Our steps-Juliana, Missy, Rebecka, and mine—were strong and purposeful because of the courage of Ms. Bridges. @morrisjeff @CCSSO

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Excited to join this meaningful conversation. Use the link to register.

https://t.co/zA6rMcoEJg

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Boys basketball: No place Kurt Russell would rather be than coaching at Oberlin https://t.co/mJDPGMt0yl

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Several members of the Black Student Union took part in Oberlin’s annual rededicating ceremony for MLK Day.

Instead of sleeping in, students committed their morning to reflection and carrying forward Dr. King’s vision of justice and equity.

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

On this first day of Kwanzaa, I reflect on how education unites our communities and empowers future generations. Grateful for the 3 Black men National Teachers of the Year before me who fostered unity by empowering all learners.

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

The flu bug caused several of our players to miss practice, but we were still able to come together for our annual holiday dinner.

Grateful to be a part of these young men’s lives.

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

Congratulations to the 2026 State Teachers of the Year! I’m excited to learn and grow alongside such an amazing group of educators.

A special shout out to Ohio’s own Chris Monsour and fellow history teacher Leon Smith . @CCSSO @SBOEOhio

[Kurt Russell @kurtsenior_]

A few weeks ago, the Ohio Chapter of the National Network of State Teachers of the Year gathered for learning + PD—and it turned into a mini-reunion of Black educators recognized as Ohio TOY finalists. Representation matters. @SBOEOhio