The honor was announced by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), which selected the semifinalists from a pool of 297 applicants representing 76 school districts across Colorado. The semifinalists represent 21 schools in 18 school districts and one charter school, with at least one candidate from every region of the state.
For Sleevi, the recognition is as much a reflection of the Bayfield community as it is of his own work.
“What an honor to be recognized by and represent a district whose strength and power lives in an expansive and inclusive view of ‘community,’” Sleevi said. “Bayfield School District is such a beautiful family.”
Sleevi has taught for 17 years and has become a familiar leader at Bayfield High School, serving not only as an Advanced Placement and Concurrent Enrollment English teacher, but also as the school's Gifted and Talented Coordinator, GSA sponsor, and a leader of the district’s inclusion efforts. His influence extends beyond the classroom through his work as an instructional leader and professional development facilitator.
In his letter of recommendation to the Colorado Teacher of the Year selection committee, Superintendent Dr. Dylan Connell described Sleevi as “a cornerstone of Bayfield High School and a leader within our region,” noting that he “embodies the rare combination of a master practitioner, a compassionate advocate, and a tireless learning leader who elevates everyone around him.”
Connell highlighted Sleevi’s commitment to creating a sense of belonging for all students and his work helping shape a school culture where every student feels valued and supported.
“Whether he is serving as the GSA Sponsor, the Gifted and Talented Coordinator, or leading the District Inclusion Initiative, Brian ensures that belonging is a prerequisite for learning,” Connell wrote.
Sleevi's classroom instruction is equally noteworthy. According to Connell, he consistently connects rigorous academic expectations with authentic learning experiences, helping students develop the critical thinking and communication skills necessary for success beyond high school.
“He bridges the gap between academic standards and real-world relevance,” Connell wrote. “His creative lesson designs serve as a model for our district, proving that high expectations and high support go hand-in-hand.”
Beyond his impact on students, Sleevi is known as a mentor and advocate for fellow educators. As a department head, member of the Building Leadership Team, and regional facilitator with the Public Education Business Coalition (PEBC), he regularly supports teachers both within Bayfield School District and across Southwest Colorado.
“What truly sets Brian apart is his role as a ‘teacher of teachers,’” Connell wrote. “He doesn’t just teach English; he teaches students how to find their voices and teachers how to engage them.”
The state recognition follows another recent honor for Sleevi. In 2025, he received the Outstanding Colorado Educator Award from the University of Colorado Boulder. He holds a bachelor's degree in Human Communications from the University of Northern Colorado, a master's degree in English Education from the University of South Florida, and a master's degree in English from the University of Colorado.
Sleevi also credited his students for helping him through the Teacher of the Year application process.
“Extra special thanks to Samantha Elk and my whole 7th hour crew who insisted on helping design my application video,” he said. “I am extraordinarily fortunate to know you all.”
The Colorado Teacher of the Year program recognizes exceptional K-12 educators across the state and elevates the teaching profession by highlighting excellence in the classroom. The selected teacher serves as Colorado’s ambassador for more than 55,000 educators statewide and becomes the state’s nominee for the National Teacher of the Year Program.
The 21 semifinalists will now advance to the next phase of the selection process, which includes additional essay questions. Finalists will be announced in September, and the 2027 Colorado Teacher of the Year will be named in October.
The selected teacher will begin their term in January 2027 and will receive $10,000 from the Boettcher Foundation and the Colorado Department of Education, along with opportunities to represent Colorado educators at state and national events.