Massachusetts Distinguished Educator Recognition

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education recognizes distinguished teachers and principals throughout the Commonwealth through DESE's Distinguished Educator Recognition Program. Now more than ever, we want to hear about the local heroes who are serving the students in your school or district. The Department may consider these educators for advisory boards and task forces.

This year, we are gathering information about distinguished kindergarten through fifth-grade educators in Massachusetts. We invite you to recommend distinguished, early- to mid-career elementary classroom teachers, specialists, and/or principals who have demonstrated all of the following:

Exceptional educational talent as evidenced by effective, innovative, and culturally responsive instructional practices that promote deeper learning;
Exemplary educational accomplishments and leadership beyond the classroom that provide models of excellence for the profession;
Contributions to education that are largely unheralded yet worthy of the spotlight;
Strong long-range potential for professional and policy leadership; and
An engaging and inspiring presence that motivates and impacts students, colleagues, and the community.

We look forward to hearing about the distinguished educators in your school and district! Please submit your recommendation by Friday, April 1.

Please direct any questions about the Distinguished Educator Recognition Program to educatorrecognition@doe.mass.edu .

Last Updated: February 16, 2022