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The Massachusetts Teacher of the Year (STOY) is an exemplary teacher who will serve as a liaison to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and as an ambassador to other teachers in the state. Learn more about this opportunity at Program Overview.
In order to be eligible to be Massachusetts Teacher of the Year, teachers must:
Note: Co-teachers who are applying together must teach in the same classroom at the same time and be responsible for the same students. Please see "General Application Instructions" below, which explain how to submit an application as co-teachers.
Teachers can apply to be Teacher of the Year themselves or be nominated by a colleague, student, family member, or other member of their school community. Teachers who are nominated will be invited to apply.
Please read the application process below, which includes a timeline and details regarding submission requirements for each round. Contact educatorrecognition@mass.gov with any questions.
Please be aware that the material you submit will be the only information upon which this part of the application will be judged. Please do not submit additional materials.
Please answer the following essay questions and enter your answers into the online application in writing or via uploaded video. Please adhere to the word count or video time maximums.
Describe a content lesson or unit that defines you as a teacher. How did you engage students of all backgrounds and abilities in the learning? How did that learning and your teaching influence your students? How are your beliefs about teaching demonstrated in this lesson or unit? (maximum 750 words or 6 minutes)
Describe a project or initiative you helped create which contributed to the improvement of overall school culture. What was your role, and what is the status of this project today? Please include evidence of student impact. (maximum 750 words or 6 minutes)
How do you ensure that education transcends the classroom? Describe specific ways in which you deliberately connect your students and the community. How do you collaborate with others (e.g. colleagues, students, families) in this work? Please include evidence of student impact. (maximum 750 words or 6 minutes)
Do not submit until you have attached your resumé and completed the essays. Please do not include any identifying student information.
Last Updated: January 13, 2022
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