Nominee Award Categories 

Purpose: Recognizes exceptional classroom impact.

Eligibility:

• Must be a current PK–12 classroom educator (public, charter, or private)

• Demonstrates strong instructional practice that supports student learning and growth

• Evidence of positive impact on students academically and/or socially

• Minimum of 2 years of classroom teaching experience

• Must be serving in an instructional role during the current or most recent school year

Purpose: Honors educators advancing equitable outcomes.

Eligibility:

• Open to educators, counselors, coaches, or school-based leaders

• Demonstrates intentional efforts to address inequities affecting students

• Work may include culturally responsive practices, advocacy, policy change, or inclusive programming

• Impact may be at the classroom, school, or community level

• No minimum years of service required

Purpose: Celebrates promising early-career educators.

Eligibility:

• Must have 0–5 years total experience in education

• Currently serving as a teacher, counselor, or instructional support professional

• Demonstrates strong potential, leadership, and commitment to students

• Shows willingness to learn, grow, and contribute beyond assigned duties

Purpose: Recognizes leaders who strengthen teaching and learning.

Eligibility:

• Open to principals, assistant principals, instructional coaches, deans, or district-based instructional leaders

• Demonstrates leadership that improves instructional quality and educator capacity

• Evidence of fostering a positive school culture and supporting educator development

• Currently serving in a leadership role or within the past academic year

Purpose: Honors educators who build strong family and community partnerships.

Eligibility:

• Open to educators or school-based professionals

• Demonstrates meaningful engagement with families, community organizations, or partners

• Work results in improved student support, access, or engagement

• Impact may extend beyond the school building

Purpose: Recognizes educators who support student-athletes holistically.

Eligibility:

• Open to coaches, teachers, counselors, or school staff

• Demonstrates commitment to student-athletes’ academic success, character development, and well-being

• Supports students beyond athletics (academics, mentoring, postsecondary planning)

• May work in middle or high school settings

Purpose: Honors guidance counselors and advisors who help students navigate pathways beyond graduation.

Eligibility:

• Must be a school-based guidance counselor, college advisor, or career specialist

• Demonstrates impact in postsecondary planning, career readiness, or social-emotional support

• Advocates for student access to college, career, or workforce opportunities

• Serves students in grades 6–12

Purpose: Honors sustained service and legacy.

Eligibility:

• Minimum of 15 years in education

• Demonstrated long-term impact on students, schools, or the broader education community

• May be currently serving or retired within the past 5 years

• Recognized for leadership, mentorship, and dedication over time