NORFOLK — King Philip Middle School English teacher Cody Michael has been named a finalist for Massachusetts Teacher of the Year.
According to King Philip Regional School District Superintendent Dr. Rich Drolet, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) Teacher of the Year Program recognizes an outstanding educator who exemplifies excellence in teaching in the Commonwealth. The Massachusetts Teacher of the Year serves as a liaison to DESE and as an ambassador to other teachers in the state, Superintendent Drolet added.
On Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, DESE Commissioner Pedro Martinez and other representatives from DESE visited King Philip Middle School to recognize Michael for his achievement. School and district administrators also attended the recognition ceremony.
Michael began his teaching career in 2018 and joined the King Philip Regional School District in 2021. He has taught English at King Philip Middle School since 2024. In addition, Michael has taught students in college preparatory programs, honors courses, and he has co-taught classes covering subjects including world literature, mythology, American literature, and the works of William Shakespeare.
According to Superintendent Drolet, Michael was recognized for successfully adapting his instructional methods to remote and hybrid learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping students maintain their academic progress.
“He is also known for his collaboration with colleagues to audit and revise existing course curricula, while analyzing student data as a way of evaluating and improving teaching practices,” Superintendent Drolet said.
In 2025, Michael became an English language arts curriculum team leader at King Philip Middle School. His responsibilities in that role include facilitating monthly department meetings, coordinating with special education teachers, formalizing common course assessments, and assisting with hiring decisions. He also serves on the school’s instructional leadership team.
Beyond his classroom responsibilities, Michael has secured competitive grants and scholarships to support instructional innovation and professional development. Funding sources have included the King Philip Parent/Teacher Organization, Massachusetts ASCD, and the Mass Cultural Council.
Michael has also contributed to educational improvement initiatives beyond the district. He has served on accreditation teams with the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and as a member of the DESE Principal and Teacher Advisory Cabinet. Superintendent Drolet said that at regional and statewide professional development conferences, Michael has delivered presentations on personalized learning platforms, digital engagement strategies, and effective communication with families.
Michael holds a master’s degree in curriculum and teaching from Fitchburg State University and a bachelor’s degree in English and secondary education from Bridgewater State University. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in education at Northeastern University, with a focus on curriculum, teaching, learning, and leadership. He expects to complete the program in 2027.
“Throughout his time at the middle school, Mr. Michael has made a lasting impact on students and colleagues,” King Philip Middle School Principal Michelle Kreuzer said. “He is a true champion for students, helping them build confidence in themselves as learners while tailoring curriculum and instruction to meet their individual needs. He has also demonstrated strong leadership as a mentor and collaborator, both inside and outside the classroom. He is extremely deserving of this recognition, and I hope you will join me in congratulating him on being named as a finalist for Massachusetts Teacher of the Year.”
Superintendent Drolet said Michael’s recognition reflects his contributions both inside and outside the classroom.
“His work in the classroom, his leadership at the curriculum and district levels, and his contributions to broader educational initiatives reflect a deep commitment to students and to the teaching profession,” Superintendent Drolet said. “We are proud to see him recognized among the state’s top educators.”
