The classroom teacher is the backbone of the American educational system. No one person has a greater impact on the education of a child than does the teacher who creates the primary learning and instructional environment. The mission of the Alaska and National Teacher of the Year Program is to honor our nation’s greatest teachers while providing rigorous professional learning for them as teachers and advocates.

Nominate a teacher in your district who has the respect and admiration of their colleagues and:
* Has five (5) or more years experience in the field of education.
* Is an expert in their field who guides students of all backgrounds and abilities to achieve excellence.
* Collaborates with colleagues, students, and families to create a school culture of respect and success.
* Deliberately connects the classroom and key stakeholders to foster a strong community at large.
* Demonstrates leadership and innovation in and outside of the classroom wall.
* Expresses themselves in an engaging and articulate way.

Thank you for nominating an educator!