October 6, 2009

Nominate Pennsylvania's 2011 Teacher of the Year


Pennsylvania teachers deliver the power of a great education. Each year, PDE and the PA Chapter of the National State Teacher of the Year Association recognize PA teachers by sponsoring the Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Program.

Nominations for 2011 PA Teacher of the Year are due December 31, 2009. Nomination packets and application forms are available online.

The selection of a Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year focuses public attention on excellence in teaching within the Commonwealth. By honoring an exemplary teacher, we are highlighting the contributions of thousands of dedicated educators.

The Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year serves as a spokesperson for teachers across the state. In this role, Pennsylvania's Teacher of the Year has a unique opportunity to represent the best in teaching and the field of education.
 
The Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year also represents the Commonwealth in the National Teacher of the Year competition in the spring, and will represent Pennsylvania at the National Teacher of the Year ceremony at the White House with the President of the United States.
 
NOMINATIONS
 
A Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year nominee must demonstrate outstanding characteristics as a teacher and have the ability to communicate his/her message to a broad audience.
 
Administrators, teachers, parents and students are encouraged to nominate a teachers who:

  • Holds a valid Pennsylvania Instruction II certificate;
  • Is an exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled individual, pre-kindergarten through grade twelve, in any public school;
  • Is planning to continue in an active teaching status;
  • Inspires students of all backgrounds to learn;
  • Has the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues;
  • Plays an active and useful role in the community as well as in the school; and
  • Is poised, articulate, and possesses the energy to carry out the duties of a State Teacher of the Year.

APPLICATION

The application process involves a number of important dates:

  • December 31, 2009: Selection Committee receives Nomination Packets.
  • Early February 2010:  Semi-Finalist notified.
  • Early March 2010: Selection Committee receives Semi-Finalist Packets.
  • Early April 2010: Finalists notified.
  • June 2010: Finalists’ DVDs reviewed by the PA  Department of Education.
  • Fall 2010: Teacher of the Year announced.

Nominations for 2011 PA Teacher of the Year are due December 31, 2009. Nomination packets and application forms are available online.

DUTIES

The 2011 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year’s duties are extensive. The chosen candidate will maintain a regular teaching schedule while also fulfilling the duties of the Teacher of the Year position. This busy schedule will require stamina and commitment. Some of the highlights during the tenure of the 2011 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year may include:

  • Participating in the National Teacher of the Year program as a representative of Pennsylvania;
  • Speaking at various engagements across the state;
  • Participating in workshops;
  • Working with legislative and other committees;
  • Attending the Chief Council of State School conference in Dallas, TX and The U.S. Department of Education’s National Teacher’s Forum in Washington, D.C.;
  • Participating in the International Space Camp in Huntsville, ALA; and
  • Writing articles for educational journals.

Learn more on PDE's Teacher of the Year website.