CARSON CITY, Nev. - As the 2021-22 school year concludes, the Nevada Department of Education (NDE or Department) continues to celebrate educators throughout Nevada for their dedication and service.

"I am proud to recognize our educators, who put in countless hours to support, encourage, and teach our almost-500,000 students each and every day," said Jhone Ebert, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. "I know firsthand just how much our students care about their educators, and we encourage students, families, and community members to share that appreciation with the educators in their lives."

NDE recognized and celebrated educators throughout Teacher Appreciation Week (May 2-6), including a video message from Superintendent Ebert and celebration of Las Vegas educator Ali Jun who received the Milken Educator Award.

"Nevada is home to more-than 30,000 pre-K-12 educators, and I cannot thank them enough for their tireless ongoing work," said Governor Steve Sisolak. "Educators: our future generations of Nevadans are being molded by all of you, and I extend my gratitude for your dedication, service, and support every single day."

The Department encourages the public to take opportunities for ongoing recognition of the educators in their communities and lives.

Ongoing Educator Celebration Opportunities

To continue to celebrate and recognize educators, NDE has announced two recognition programs:

• 2023 Nevada Teacher of the Year Applications and Nominations 
  • Applications: NDE opened applications for the 2023 Teacher of the Year on May 5. Current pre-kindergarten through grade 12 classroom teachers in traditional public schools, charter schools, and private schools are encouraged to apply for the chance to be recognized as the 2023 Nevada Teacher of the Year. Applications must be submitted by Friday, July 1, 2022 via the online application form. Individuals do not need to be nominated in order to apply.
  • Nominations: Students, family, and community members may nominate individuals to apply for Teacher of the Year now through Friday, June 24, 2022 via the online nomination form. NDE strongly encourages educators to nominate their colleagues.
   
• Exemplary Educator Recognition Program - NDE also announced a new opportunity for the public to recognize distinguished classroom teachers and/or school administrators who demonstrate leadership and excellence. Educators can be recommended by school staff or leaders, family members, other educators, or the general public. Recommendations can be submitted on an ongoing basis to NDE's online recognition form, and NDE will reach out to recommended educators with special leadership opportunities.

"Educator appreciation should never be limited to just one week, as our educators are an integral part of our students lives every day," said Superintendent Ebert. "I challenge every Nevadan to find ongoing ways to celebrate the educators in their communities, starting with nominating educators for well-deserved recognition and celebration!"

Educators are encouraged to recognize colleagues within their schools by nominating them for the Nevada Teacher of the Year or for recognition as an Exemplary Educator. NDE will provide $20 Amazon gift cards to the first 50 educators who submit nominations or recommendations for colleagues in one of these programs, limit one per educator.

Visit the NDE website for more information on the Nevada Teacher of the Year program.

Attachments:

• Nevada 2023 Teacher of the Year Application
• Nevada 2023 Teacher of the Year Nomination
• Nevada Exemplary Educator Recognition Program
• Nevada Teacher of the Year Program
• 2022 Teacher Appreciation Week Message from Superintendent Ebert
• News Alert: Las Vegas Teacher Ali Jun Receives Nevada's Milken Educator Award

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ABOUT THE NEVADA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

The Nevada Department of Education (NDE) leads and collaborates with Nevada's 17 school districts and the State Public Charter School Authority to advance educational equity Statewide. With offices in Carson City and Las Vegas, NDE oversees all pre-K-12 education in the State, working to achieve its mission to improve student achievement and educator effectiveness by ensuring opportunities, facilitating learning, and promoting excellence. Under the leadership of the State Board of Education and the Superintendent of Public Instruction, NDE impacts the achievement of nearly half a million children and 30,000 educators.