CEL Teacher-Leader of Excellence Award
The CEL Teacher-Leader of Excellence Award honors NCTE classroom educators for exceptional leadership and impactful contributions to literacy education and innovation.
Funder: National Council of Teachers of English
Due Dates: June 1, 2026: Nomination deadline (extended)
Funding Amounts: No monetary award; recipient receives a certificate and recognition at the CEL Annual Convention.
Summary: Recognizes NCTE classroom educators who demonstrate outstanding literacy leadership and impact both inside and outside the classroom.
Key Information: Nomination requires a form, at least two letters of recommendation, and a curriculum vitae.
Description
The CEL Teacher-Leader of Excellence Award, offered by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), honors classroom educators who exemplify leadership in literacy both within their classrooms and in broader educational contexts. The award is designed for NCTE members who amplify student voices, drive innovation or change in literacy instruction, and remain actively engaged as teachers. Recipients are recognized for their significant contributions to literacy education and for fostering positive change in their schools or communities. The award includes a certificate presented at the annual Conference on English Leadership (CEL) Convention.
