NSHSS Educator of the Year Awards
NSHSS Educator of the Year Awards support exemplary educators, rewarding teaching, administration, and leadership that prepare high school students for success in college and life.
This grant was recently updated
Applications open May 29, 2026, and close March 18, 2027, at 11:59 PM EST. Posted requirements include an 800–1,000-word teaching-philosophy response with classroom examples, a recommendation attesting to teaching excellence, a professional resume, and a color headshot; leadership media are optional but strongly encouraged.
Funder: National Society of High School Scholars
Due Dates: May 29, 2026 (Applications open) | March 18, 2027, at 11:59 PM EST (Closing date)
Funding Amounts: One $5,000 top award and nine $1,000 finalist awards
Summary: Annual awards recognize exemplary educators whose teaching, administration, and leadership prepare high school students for success in college and life.
Key Information: Applicants must be registered NSHSS Educators working academically with high school students, in the United States or internationally.
Description
The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) presents its Educator of the Year Awards annually to educators who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to preparing students for success in college and life. The awards recognize best practices in teaching or administration, both inside and outside the classroom, alongside peer role modeling, leadership, and excellence in education.
The program began in 2011 with the first Claes Nobel Educator of the Year Award, presented to James B. Carmicle of Hollywood High School in Los Angeles. The following year, NSHSS expanded the recognition to one Educator of the Year and additional finalists forming a Top Ten. The program continues to honor educators whose work demonstrates sustained commitment to students.
