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About the Program
Application and Selection Information


Scholastic partners with educational institutions and associations to support and create programs that promote excellence in the teaching profession and leadership development among educators. That is why the company is proud to be the corporate sponsor of the National Teacher of the Year Program. The National Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest, most prestigious national honors program that focuses public attention on excellence in teaching. The National Teacher of the Year is chosen from among the State Teachers of the Year by a national selection committee representing the major national education organizations. Each spring, the National Teacher of the Year is introduced to the American people at a White House ceremony. Scholastic Inc. is the proud sponsor of this award, which is administered by the Council of Chief State School Officers.

Duties of the National Teacher of the Year
During the official year of recognition, the National Teacher is released from all classroom duties to serve as a spokesperson and advocate for the entire teaching profession. The teacher's home state and district ensure the teacher's salary and benefits. National Teachers attend an average of over 150 events each year and speak before audiences ranging from several hundred to over ten thousand. Television, radio, and the print media readily utilize National Teachers to represent the voice of education. National Teachers are frequently requested to sit on national and state commissions and policy advising bodies. The National Teacher may be called upon to represent American educators to audiences in other nations.