Skip to main content

Nominations Now Open for 2026-27 Michigan Teacher of the Year

LANSING – The window for nominating candidates for the 2026-27 Michigan Teacher of the Year program is now open.

The purpose of the Michigan Teacher of the Year program is to honor and recognize teachers from across Michigan.

“Our state has many dedicated teachers who deserve praise for their inspiring work with Michigan students,” said State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice. “These outstanding educators have valuable insight to share with the Michigan Department of Education and State Board of Education, an integral part of the Michigan Teacher of the Year program.”

Each year, the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) selects 10 Regional Teachers of the Year through a competitive application process, with one of those teachers being named Michigan Teacher of the Year. Teacher of the Year awardees have an opportunity to learn more about educational initiatives and policies at the state level and provide input on how to better serve Michigan students.

People wishing to nominate a teacher for this program are asked to use the online form by Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. To be eligible, a nominee must have a valid Michigan teaching certificate and at least five years of certificated teaching experience in Michigan, and be in good standing with their school or district. Nominations are open to the public, and anyone can submit a nomination. Educators are not permitted to nominate themselves.

MDE recognizes that some intermediate school districts and local education agencies, both traditional public school districts and public school academies, have an established process for awarding local teachers of the year. If so, representatives of districts and intermediate school districts are encouraged to recommend their local teachers of the year through a direct email to MTOY@Michigan.gov.

To learn more about MDE’s Michigan Teacher of the Year program, visit the program webpage. Anyone with questions regarding the program or nomination process can contact the Office of Educator Excellence at MTOY@Michigan.gov.

# # #

Media Contact: