Affton High School social studies teacher Brian Esselman was recently nationally recognized, having been named the 2025 Missouri History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.

This prestigious honor recognizes one history teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools and U.S. territories yearly. By state, a committee of history teachers, professors and other education professionals review the nominated teachers before choosing the winner. Esselman was nominated for the renowned award by  Lisa Lillie, a dual credit history coordinator and educational partner through the St. Louis University 1818 Program, in part due to the development of Affton’s new course, “Sea Scoundrels: A Global History of Piracy.” 

“Dr. Esselman’s recognition as Missouri History Teacher of the Year is a testament to his passion for helping students think critically, engage with history from multiple perspectives and connect the past to the present,” Affton School District Superintendent Travis Bracht said. “His work reflects the very best of Affton — curiosity, collaboration and a commitment to student success. We are incredibly proud to have him on our team.”

Each state winner is awarded $1,000 before becoming a nominee in the national contest, where they will face a national panel of eminent historians, former winners and master teachers for the chance to win $10,000. The National History Teacher of the Year will be announced in the fall.

“I think this award represents the willingness of our school community to consider all historical perspectives and always, always go back to the sources. It is a tremendous honor to teach in Affton and work with such wonderful people day in and day out,” Esselman said. “I am truly amazed by the curiosity of our students, the inspiration gathered from my colleagues and the ongoing support of the administration. Thank you to everyone.”