The classroom teacher is the backbone of the American educational system. No one person has a greater impact on the education of the child than the teacher who creates the primary learning and instructional environment. It is the mission of the State and National Teacher of the Year Programs to recognize and honor the contributions of the American classroom teacher. The Program is the oldest and most prestigious honors program to focus public attention on excellence in teaching.
Teacher of the Year Nominations
Any educator who holds a teaching license, serves in a role that requires a teaching license, and spends more than 50% of their time working directly with students is eligible to be nominated for the Teacher of the Year Award. The public nomination period for North Dakota 2025 County Teachers of the Year will close Feb. 9, 2025. After Feb. 9, nominations will be accepted from principals and administrators ONLY. County winners will have the opportunity to apply to be considered for the 2026 North Dakota Teacher of the Year Award. If you have questions about the program or the application process, please contact Jenn Odell, NDDPI communications officer, at jodell@nd.gov.