OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence is now accepting nominations for the Medal for Excellence, one of the state’s most prestigious teaching honors.
The Medal for Excellence recognizes public school educators for their passion and innovation, commitment to professional development, and extraordinary impact on student learning.
OFE awards one Medal for Excellence annually in each of five categories: Elementary Teaching, Secondary Teaching, Elementary/Secondary Administration, Regional University/Community College Teaching and Research University Teaching.
“Greatness is happening in Oklahoma’s public school classrooms, and we are honored to celebrate these incredible educators who inspire and challenge their students,” said Elizabeth Inbody, OFE’s chief executive officer. “When we recognize teachers, we send a powerful message about the importance of their work and the essential role public education plays in our state’s future. When we elevate excellence, we elevate Oklahoma.”
Anyone can nominate an educator for the award, including colleagues, community members and students.
Nominations can be submitted at OFE.org through 5 p.m. Sept. 30.
An independent selection committee made up of business, education and civic leaders — including past Medal for Excellence recipients — chooses the honorees.
The 2027 recipients will be honored May 8 at OFE’s 41st annual Academic Awards Celebration at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. Each honoree will receive a $5,000 award, a medal and a “Roots and Wings” sculpture.
OFE is a statewide, nonpartisan nonprofit that recognizes and encourages academic excellence in Oklahoma’s public schools. Founded in 1985, the foundation elevates public education through esteemed honors, support for public school foundations, grants to K-12 mentoring programs, and partnerships that provide quality professional development for educators.
