Leah Wheeling

Leah (Palmer) Wheeling has been recognized as one of the best teachers in the nation by SHAPE America.

Wheeling, a 2011 Bemidji State University graduate, was named the 2026 Middle School Physical Education Teacher of the Year by SHAPE America on March 20. Wheeling and the other honorees represent the very best in adapted physical education, health education, and physical education, according to a release.

Wheeling teaches sixth-grade Digital Literacy and Physical Education at Simle Middle School in Bismarck, North Dakota, and serves as an adjunct instructor for three methods courses at the University of Mary. She also coaches middle school track and teaches swim lessons.

Over her 14-year career, Wheeling has taught choir, general music, swimming, health and seventh-grade physical education. She said she is passionate about creating activity opportunities beyond the classroom, leading programs such as Training and Games (TAG) and Board Game Club. An advocate for lifelong learning, Wheeling serves as a board member and past president of NDSHAPE. She regularly presents at state, regional and national conferences, and co-hosts professional development for educators.

Wheeling holds bachelor’s degrees in physical education and music education from Bemidji State and a master’s degree in sport and physical education administration from the University of Mary. She was named NDSHAPE Middle School PE Teacher of the Year in both 2016 and 2024, and she received the 2024 Governor’s Innovator Award.

Honored alongside Wheeling were the other National Teachers of the Year:

• Adapted Physical Education: Chris Ahrens, San Diego, CA
• Health Education: Stephen Chapin, St. James, MN
• Elementary Physical Education: Nicholas D’Ambroso, Pelham Manor, NY
• High School Physical Education: Carla Christiansen, Apple Valley, MN

SHAPE America (Society of Health and Physical Educators) serves as the voice for 200,000+ health and physical education professionals across the United States. The organization’s extensive community includes a diverse membership of health and physical educators, as well as advocates, supporters, and 50+ state affiliate organizations.