As my time comes to an end as the 2026 Teacher on the Trail, I am reflecting on all those that made this journey what it was. I want to first thank the Iditarod Education Department of Linda Fenton, Jim Deprez, Terrie Hanke, Erin Montgomery, and Angie Taggart, for believing in me and my ability to do this important job as well as so much help along the way. It was an honor to be chosen and one I will cherish forever. I want to thank my incredibly supportive work family: Superintendent Barb Schwamman, Principal Bill Carlson, and colleagues Nathan Muhs, Ivy Sickels, Andie Olson, Molly Ferrell, and Mary Jo Urbatsch, for your endless motivation and always pushing me to be my very best. Thanks to the schools of the Wasilla and Girdwood areas for welcoming me as a presenter. On the trail, I met and now care for far too many people to count, but I want to give special recognition to Jo Miller and Deb Menendez for taking such great care of me when I became sick, to Whitney, my new favorite photographer, for your friendship out there, and to Merri Shunk in Nome for just being an incredible person to be with, cook with, and laugh with. Thank you to the community of Osage, Iowa who never failed to stop me in the street, share social media posts, and congratulate me whenever possible. I felt truly supported this past year. Above all, to my husband and daughters… I am humbled by your belief in me. You never doubted my ability and encouraged me endlessly. I love you all so very much and couldn’t have done it without you. This dream I’ve held for so long is now in the history books. I am eternally grateful for this experience. -Kari Wright
