Idaho Seeks 2027 Teacher of the Year Nominations

The state's top teaching honor comes with a $10,000 award and national recognition.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 10:47pm

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The Idaho Department of Education has opened nominations for the 2027 CapEd Credit Union Idaho Teacher of the Year, the state's highest honor recognizing excellence in education. The selected teacher will receive a $10,000 cash award, travel across Idaho to engage with educators and leaders, and represent the state in the National Teacher of the Year program.

Why it matters

The Idaho Teacher of the Year program highlights exceptional educators who go above and beyond to support students, providing an opportunity to raise up role models and advocates for the teaching profession in the state.

The details

Nominations are open to the public, including parents, students, colleagues, and community members. Any traditional or charter school educator in Idaho, teaching any subject at any grade level, is eligible. Nominated teachers will complete an application process, with the winner expected to be announced in the fall.

  • Nominations are open until March 11, 2026.
  • Nominated teachers will have until mid-May 2026 to complete the application process.
  • The 2027 Idaho Teacher of the Year winner is expected to be announced in the fall of 2026.

The players

Debbie Critchfield

Superintendent of Public Instruction for the state of Idaho.

CapEd Credit Union

The sponsor of the Idaho Teacher of the Year program, providing a $10,000 cash award to the honoree.

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What they’re saying

“This program gives us the opportunity to raise up this type of educator and say, 'here's someone who's truly going the extra mile for Idaho students.'”

— Debbie Critchfield, Superintendent of Public Instruction

What’s next

The selection committee will review all applications and materials, with the 2027 Idaho Teacher of the Year winner expected to be announced in the fall of 2026.

The takeaway

The Idaho Teacher of the Year program provides a valuable platform to recognize and celebrate exceptional educators who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of students across the state.