Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year

Eligibility: only active elementary (prekindergarten–grade 5) and secondary (grades 6–12) teachers qualify for nomination

Nomination: begins at the campus level. Most teachers are nominated by a colleague or a supervisor, but parents and other community members may also nominate candidates (contact the principal for details).

Selection Process: Each campus’ winner is generally determined by popular vote. Winners there advance to the regional level for consideration, where one elementary and one secondary teacher are selected for the districtwide competition. The district’s teachers of the year are chosen from among the regional winners.

Recognition: Educators are formally recognized during the annual Teacher of the Year Banquet, which takes place every spring.

Special Notes: HISD also recognizes one individual annually under each of the following categories during the Teacher of the Year Banquet:

• Outstanding Young Educator Award: sponsored by the Houston Jaycees, this honors one outstanding elementary- or secondary-school teacher between the ages of 21 and 39
• Elizabeth Brand Memorial Award: sponsored by the Houston Association of Professional Landmen, this award honors the memory of former teacher Elizabeth Brand
• Emily Scott Evans Award: honors one third-grade teacher who encourages students to get excited about learning and to cultivate respectful relationships with peers and adults

For more information on these awards and how to nominate someone for them, contact your school’s principal.