MNTC Instructional Trainer/Coach Margaret Salesky was named 2026 OkACTE Postsecondary Professional of the Year, New & Related Services Division for being a distinguished instructional leader whose career reflects a sustained commitment to educator development, instructional excellence, and equitable learning opportunities. In her role at MNTC, Margaret leads faculty development initiatives, strengthens instructional quality, and advances student success across programs.

A defining feature of her leadership is her dedication to building educator capacity. She has supervised student teachers through their transition into professional practice, and as lead mentor in a new teacher induction program, she mentors novice teachers while also coaching mentors themselves in effective mentoring strategies, strengthening program coherence and long-term sustainability. Her work emphasizes systems of support that elevate instructional practice at every level.

Margaret’s leadership is grounded in a broad and diverse background spanning elementary and middle school education, adult learning, and higher education. She has taught first and seventh grades, served as a reading specialist, supported multilingual learners, and worked as an English instructional coach in Title I schools, partnering with teachers to strengthen literacy instruction through data-informed practices. Two years teaching in Beijing, China, and ESL instruction in inner-city Milwaukee shape her culturally responsive approach to guiding educators who serve diverse student populations.

Margaret holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, a Master's in TESOL, and is completing a second Master's in Educational Leadership. This preparation is equipping her to bridge theory and classroom practice through transformational coaching. Recognized for collaborative leadership and strategic thinking, Margaret exemplifies an instructional leader whose impact extends far beyond the classroom.