Phoenix Math Teacher Wins $2,500 for Teaching Beyond Numbers

A Phoenix math teacher who learned from his own mother in high school just won $2,500 for passing on more than equations to his students.

Dustin Thomas teaches ninth and tenth grade math at Camelback High School, where one of his students happens to be his daughter. Unlike when he was in high school calling his teacher mom "Mrs. Thomas," his daughter gets to call him "Dad" in class.

Thomas is the first winner of 2026 in the Pay Tribute to a Teacher competition, sponsored by Your Valley Toyota Dealers. The award recognizes educators making exceptional impacts in Arizona classrooms.

His nomination didn't focus on test scores or algebra skills. Instead, the person who submitted his name highlighted how Thomas strengthens the entire school community by coordinating volunteer opportunities and pushing students to become leaders.

Through an after school club, Thomas guides students in giving back to their Phoenix neighborhood. The group fundraises to buy materials, then gathers to make blankets for people in need.

This year alone, they've completed 80 blankets donated to different communities around Camelback. The students partner with organizations like Camelback Montessori to identify families who need warmth and support.

Why This Inspires

Second generation teachers like Thomas prove that some professions run deeper than career choices. They're callings that get passed down because someone saw firsthand how education changes lives.

By combining math lessons with community service, Thomas shows students that numbers matter, but so do people. His classroom becomes a launching pad where teenagers learn formulas and compassion in equal measure, then carry both into the world as the leaders their neighborhood needs.

The Pay Tribute to a Teacher award accepts nominations year round for Arizona educators making a difference.