February 2026 National Teacher of the Month

The Teacher of the Month award is our way of celebrating educators who live out our core values—compassion, humility, integrity, loyalty, and discipline—each and every day. We’re excited to announce that our 2026 February National Teacher of the Month is Ms. Heyley from Little Sunshine’s Playhouse of The Woodlands.

The leadership team at The Woodlands had such kind words to say to Ms. Heyley in light of this honor, saying: “For the past six years, Heyley has been an essential part of the Little Sunshine’s family. Her dedication to early childhood education, her positive spirit, and her unwavering commitment to her students make her truly deserving of this recognition.

Heyley serves as a mentor teacher within our school, and her leadership is felt daily. She models best practices, supports new team members with patience and encouragement, and continuously shares her knowledge and creativity with others. She leads with kindness, professionalism, and a genuine love for what she does.

In the classroom, Heyley brings learning to life through engaging Reggio Emilia-inspired lessons. She thoughtfully designs experiences based on her students’ interests, encouraging exploration, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Her classroom environment reflects curiosity and wonder, where children are empowered to ask questions, investigate ideas, and express themselves confidently.

One of Heyley’s greatest strengths is the strong, meaningful relationships she builds. She forms fantastic partnerships with families, maintaining open communication and ensuring that parents feel connected and informed. Most importantly, she develops deep, trusting connections with her students. Each child feels valued, supported, and celebrated for who they are. Her warmth and attentiveness help children feel safe, confident, and excited to learn each day.

Heyley’s passion, heart, and commitment make a lasting impact not only on her students but on our entire school community. We are so grateful for the energy, positivity, and excellence she brings to Little Sunshine’s.

Please join us in congratulating Heyley Fife on this well-deserved honor!”

Learn a little more about our February 2026 National Teacher of the Month, Ms. Heyley. ❤️

What age group do you teach?

I teach older 2’s and younger 3’s kiddos.

What is the name of your classroom?

My classroom is called Ashdown Forest.

What do you love most about the age group you teach?

My kids have the biggest imaginations and are super creative. I love to see the excitement that they have on their faces when they accomplish something new!

What is your favorite curriculum project you’ve ever done in your classroom?

I love building and doing science reaction projects like volcanos and fizzy art.

What do you enjoy most about working at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse?

The best thing about working at Little Sunshine’s is the family atmosphere and the wonderful families I have met.

What made you want to become an early childhood educator?

My own childhood experiences and wanting to be the type of teacher that I never had as a child was a deep motivation in becoming an early childhood educator.

Who and/or what inspires you and why?

I have always enjoyed being around children. Watching them grow and learn new things and seeing their curiosity and excitement when they discover something new is really rewarding and inspiring for me! It is also important to me to create a safe, loving, and supportive environment for them to learn in.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

What I enjoy most is hiking in nature, spending time with my two sons, going to baseball games, and caring for my chickens.

Tell us one special fact about yourself that no one would expect.

I’m starting a mini farm and have 2 chickens and a rooster. I also love to dance!

We’d also like to extend congratulations to all of this month’s nominees listed below. Thank you for your continued passion and dedication. You are all a vital part of our Little Sunshine’s family!

Arvada – Amaree R.

Briargate – Brandy D.

Broomfield – Kaylee A.

Cardinal – Tylar S.

Castle Rock – Sofia N.

Chesterfield – Cassandra D.

Chestnut – Anna B.

Claremont – Danna P.

Creve Coeur – Lovely M.

Cumming – Sunny C.

Dominion – Gianni P.

Elkhorn North – Ivy W.

West Omaha – Haleigh P.

Erie – Holli K.

Four Points – Cyrnell C.

Gilbert Val Vista – Susie K.

Granite Bay – Jenny H.

Hendersonville – Lily V.

Gilbert Higley – Tessa H.

Lakeway – Gaby M. D.

Colorado Springs (Cheyenne Mountain) – Maddie S.

Littleton – Madison T.

Lake St. Louis – Danielle B.

Leawood – Taylor A.

Mt. Juliet – Katrina J.

O’Fallon – Tina S.

Overland Park – Hemily P. V.

Franklin – Nic O.

Ozark – Ally H.

Parker – Fathima

Rogers – LeeAnn K.

Roswell – Mehana R.

Schaumburg – Caysie C.

Scottsdale – Savannah H.

Southlake – Sarah C.

Stone Oak – Mara O. T.

Thornton – Keily S.

University City – Lisa G.

Willowbrook – Jess D.