Fairfield Teacher Receives State-Wide Recognition
Fairfield High School teacher Heidi Grunwald has been named the 2026 Iowa Masonic Teacher of the Year.
Grunwald was recognized on September 17th, 2026 during the Iowa Masonic Grand Lodge’s Annual Meeting in Bettendorf, where she was introduced to Masons and their families from across the state. She was joined at the event by her husband, John Grunwald; FHS administrator Larissa Tyler; and representatives from Fairfield’s Clinton Lodge #15.
Grunwald applied for the award in spring 2026, submitting information about her career in education, community involvement, professional recognitions and her commitment to public education. Applicants were also required to submit a letter of recommendation and receive sponsorship from a local Masonic Lodge. She was notified of her selection on July 28, 2026.
Grunwald has received several honors throughout her career, including Mrs. Trojan, Honorary FFA Chapter Member, Volunteer of the Year and, most recently, Fairfield Teacher of the Year.
Following the introduction, Grunwald was presented with a plaque and two monetary gifts by Iowa Masonic Grand Master Wade Sheeler. One gift was presented to Grunwald in recognition of the award, while the other was donated to Fairfield High School in her honor.
Grunwald expressed her gratitude for the recognition and thanked her family, friends, colleagues and school community for their support. She shared that teaching has been a significant part of her life and that she has never pursued the profession for recognition, but rather for the opportunity to serve students and her community.
