2023 Participate Learning Teacher of the Year Awards

The Participate Learning Teacher of the Year awards recognize three teachers within our network who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to their students, school communities, and our shared mission of uniting our world through global learning. With the end of the school year on the horizon, it is time to look for our 2023 winners! 

The process to apply or nominate a teacher for the 2023 Teacher of the Year awards opened on March 6 and closes on April 9 at midnight. This year’s award is open to all Participate Learning Ambassador Teachers as well as U.S. teachers in partner schools implementing our Participate Learning Global Leaders framework and/or Dual Language Programs. 

What does it mean to be a Participate Learning Teacher of the Year?

Our Teachers of the Year display a dedication to global education and a commitment to their students, colleagues, and community of educators. 

They each create a culturally responsive environment where all students are valued and included. They are masters of instruction who generously share their expertise and resources with others. They integrate their culture and that of their students into instruction, embrace leadership opportunities, and strive to make an impact. 

The winners spend a year representing their schools and Participate Learning by sharing ideas and collaborating with other educators and the broader education community. In addition to the award package, winners may also have the opportunity to engage in professional development experiences, present at events, receive sponsorships for presenting at conferences, and share expertise with the Participate Learning Network.

The professional learning opportunities differ, depending on the year’s calendar of events and the individual interests of each winner. During this past year, the 2022 winners have had many professional development opportunities and the chance to connect with each other, fellow Teachers of the Year, and a variety of education professionals in our network. They engaged in a leadership week with Teachers of the Year from across the state at Ocracoke, attended conferences such as Latinx Education Summit, and presented to other educators in their schools, districts, and beyond.

How to apply

The application phase has already started, but there is still plenty of time to be considered. The first step is the interest form, where individuals apply or nominate an eligible teacher who deserves to be recognized. After that, the applicant or nominee receives an email that includes access to the application and detailed instructions about the process.

Important dates:

• Applications Close – Sunday, April 9, 2023
• Finalist Notifications – Finalists will be notified on or before Thursday, April 20, 2023.
• Finalist Interviews – Each finalist will participate in an interview during the week of April 26 – May 3, 2023.
• Award Winner Celebrations – Announcements and award presentations will take place after May 22, 2023.

The application process is a valuable opportunity for teachers to showcase their talents for future opportunities through a portfolio that shows who they are as global educators and a letter of recommendation from a leader at their school. 

Find more details about applying or nominating an eligible teacher for Participate Learning Teacher of the Year here.

Have a question about the application process? Reach out to Michelle Macumber for more information.