Washington, D.C. (September 5, 2024)— The NEA Foundation announced today that 48 public
school educators will be honored with the esteemed 2025 Travelers Awards for Teaching
Excellence. The awardees, who come from every region of the country and serve urban, rural,
and suburban communities, have demonstrated excellence in the classroom, leadership in the
teaching profession, engagement with families and communities, and dedication to equity and
diversity.
“These dedicated educators are a reminder of the critical role public education plays in shaping
our society and nurturing future generations,” said President and CEO of The NEA Foundation
Sara A. Sneed. “During a time when the institution of public education is being challenged,
these awardees are a testament to the immeasurable impact even one educator can have for
countless students, their families, and their communities at large.”
“Educators do so much more than teach—they mentor, motivate, and inspire the next
generation,” said Len Mariani, Senior Vice President of Direct Distribution for Travelers. “This
year’s award recipients are a remarkable group who have done so much for so many, and we
are proud to partner with The NEA Foundation to honor them.”
Since 2001, The NEA Foundation has honored hundreds of exceptional educators throughout
the country with the Awards for Teaching Excellence. The 2025 educator awardees will be
celebrated at the Salute to Excellence in Education on February 14, 2025 at The Anthem in
Washington, D.C.
Five of the top awardees will receive the distinction of being named Horace Mann Awardees
from among which, one will be chosen for the highest honor, the NEA Member Benefits Award.
The five finalists will each receive $10,000 and be featured in a short documentary highlighting
their teaching practice. The educator selected for the top honor will be revealed at the Salute
to Excellence in Education and receive $25,000.
Read more about the Travelers Awards for Teaching Excellence here and explore a gallery of
this year’s awardees.
