Doshi Named 2026 National History Teacher of the Year

The Gilder Lehrman Institute honored the Los Angeles-area educator with a $10,000 grand prize for her history teaching.

Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Secondary Education

Bold vector-style editorial illustration of a stack of plain hardcover books beside a rolled scroll on a sunlit desk, with palm silhouettes beyond a window. — Aditi Mehta Doshi, a Los Angeles-area history teacher at Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies Magnet in Reseda, was named 2026 National History Teacher of the Year and will receive a $10,000 grand prize. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History named Aditi Mehta Doshi 2026 National History Teacher of the Year on November 3. Doshi teaches at Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies Magnet in Reseda, California, and will receive a $10,000 grand prize.

Why it matters

The annual program recognizes history teachers for helping students understand the past through evidence, research and discussion. The honor highlights classroom instruction in Los Angeles at a time when history education is a focus for schools.

The national award carries a $10,000 grand prize and was chosen from 53 state-level winners. Nominees must have at least three years of classroom experience, and nominations come from students, parents, colleagues or school administrators.

The players

Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History

A New York-based nonprofit organization that promotes the study of American history in schools and runs the national history teacher award program.

Aditi Mehta Doshi

A Los Angeles-area history teacher at Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies Magnet in Reseda, California, who holds degrees from Harvard College, UCLA and Gettysburg College.

The details

Doshi has taught students in Los Angeles for more than two decades and teaches African American Studies, AP World History and AP US History. She also serves as a National History Day coordinator and judge and is an AP Reader and UCLA AP Readiness Instructor for AP African American Studies.

November 3, 2026: Gilder Lehrman announces Doshi's selection as national winner.
November 9, 2026: Award ceremony held at the Yale Club of New York City.

Season Trajectory

Doshi's recognition connects to National History Day, which she received a 2024 Patricia Behring Senior Division Teacher of the Year award through. Her national honor builds on that earlier recognition and places her among the country's leading history educators.

Students at Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies Magnet and other Los Angeles-area schools may see this teacher's approach to AP World History and AP US History. Parents considering history programs can look for teachers with national recognition and strong classroom records.

The takeaway

Strong history teaching relies on students working with evidence, research and discussion rather than memorizing dates alone. Families and students can seek out classes that emphasize these skills.