The Distinguished Educators program recognizes educators at all levels of involvement, especially those who have contributed to the educational process through direct student involvement or partnerships. It recognizes outstanding programs in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.

Educator Award Categories:

• Distinguished Educators: Primary (elementary)
• Distinguished Educators: Secondary (middle-high)
• Distinguished Educators: Community College (2-year)
• Distinguished Educators: University (4-year)
• Distinguished Educators: Career & Technical
• Educator of the Year

• Demonstrated high standards of teaching effectiveness
• Outstanding or innovative teaching techniques
• Positive reputation for teaching from the perspective of students, colleagues, and alumni
• Evidence of sustained commitment to teaching
• Evidence of high levels of student learning of achievement

Program Categories:

• Distinguished Program: Science
• Distinguished Program: Technology
• Distinguished Program: Engineering
• Distinguished Program: Arts
• Distinguished Program: Mathematics

• Unique or extraordinary accomplishments in education in a specific STEAM field
• Active leadership in education in a specific STEAM field
• Noteworthy scholarly contributions to education in a specific STEAM field
• Focus of public attention on the need for improvement of education in a specific STEAM field
• Direct and substantial contributions to the improvement of education in a specific STEAM field
• Contributions in a specific STEAM field over a significant period of time
• Overall excellence of contributions in a specific STEAM field