The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) has selected Dustin Jackson, theatre and communication educator at Russellville High School, as the 2026 ACTAA Teacher of the Year.

Jackson, who was also honored earlier this year as the Russellville High School Teacher of the Year, has dedicated more than 13 years to teaching. A proud alumna of Russellville High School, he has spent her career building a vibrant theatre and communication program that fosters student creativity, confidence, and excellence both on stage and in competition.

“Dustin Jackson’s career represents the very best of our profession,” said Zackery Tucker, President of ACTAA. “His impact extends far beyond her classroom—he is shaping future leaders, communicators, and artists who will carry these skills throughout their lives. We are proud to recognize him with this award.”

Under his leadership, Russellville High School has established a strong tradition in theatre, speech, and debate, regularly producing high-quality performances and preparing students for ACTAA competitions across the state. Colleagues and students alike describe him as a dedicated mentor whose influence reaches beyond the classroom.

The ACTAA Teacher of the Year award honors an educator who exemplifies the association’s mission to promote excellence in communication, debate, theatre, and forensics across Arkansas. Jackson’s career reflects this commitment through decades of service, innovation, and advocacy for the arts in both the classroom and community.

As ACTAA Teacher of the Year, Jackson will be nominated by the association for the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Outstanding Speech, Debate, & Theatre Educator award this winter.

The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is a non-profit professional organization serving educators. Its purpose is to promote communication, debate, forensics and theatre as an essential discipline, life skill, and art form. Additionally, ACTAA is the official sanctioning organization authorized by the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) and National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) to govern interscholastic speech and debate competition in Arkansas.

###