DoDEA logo
DoDEA logo
Logo
Teacher of the Year logo
Teacher of the Year Program

Dana Panczenko

The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) - Europe East District proudly announces that Ms. Dana Panczenko, a 10th Grade English Teacher at Vilseck High School, in Germany, has been selected as the 2026 Europe East District Teacher of the Year.


Dana Panczenko, who teaches 10th grade English, strategic literacy instruction and advanced drama at Vilseck High School in Germany, has been named the 2026 Europe East District Teacher of the Year by the DoDEA Europe East District. Known for her commitment to restorative practices and student empowerment, Panczenko creates a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported and encouraged to grow.


“Ms. Panczenko’s innovative approach to teaching and her dedication to student well-being make her a true asset to our district,” said Elizabeth Fales, superintendent of DoDEA Europe East. “She leads with compassion, and her focus on restorative practices and learning inspires both students and colleagues.”


Panczenko will graduate in May with a Master of Arts in texts, technologies and literature from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Washington College.


She is especially proud of her work transforming her school’s detention program into a restorative group, helping students reflect on their choices and align their actions with their values. This initiative has significantly reduced disciplinary issues schoolwide and fostered more positive relationships between students and staff.


2026 Europe District Teachers of the Year
Dana Panczenko
Vilseck HS
10th Grade English Teacher

Department of Defense Education Activity

U.S. Department of Defense Seal
dodea.edu

An official website of the Department of Defense. DoDEA is a Department of Defense Field Activity operating under the direction, authority, and control of the Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.

The appearance of hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) of non-U.S. Government sites or the information, products, or services contained therein. Although DoDEA may or may not use these sites as additional distribution channels for Department of Defense information, it does not exercise editorial control over all of the information that you may find at these locations. Such links are provided consistent with the stated purpose of this website.

Open modal Return to top