Blue Ribbon Teacher
The Blue Ribbon Teacher award has a storied legacy – one that honors and uplifts the incredible work our teachers do across the district every year. It is a season when our community comes together to celebrate teaching that changes lives and creates futures.
In collaboration with Nashville Public Education Foundation and community partners, MNPS wants to honor teachers who are accomplishing outstanding things with our students. The focus areas for Blue Ribbon Teacher are intentional.
Our district and its staff are charged with identifying and eliminating the inequities our students face. Likewise, MNPS is committed to ensuring all students are engaged in rigorous, personalized learning experiences. We also believe strongly in empowering and equipping leaders at all levels of the organization.
This year’s Blue Ribbon Teacher program will identify up to 25 extraordinary teachers for their work in equity, instruction, and leadership - awarding each of them a $2,000 prize.
Now accepting applications for Blue Ribbon Teacher 2026
Award Categories
Excellence in Student Success and Opportunity
The Excellence in Student Success and Opportunity category recognizes the innovative ways educators support students and eliminate inequities to impact outcomes. Candidates for this category are teachers who excel at culturally relevant pedagogy, cultivate classrooms of belonging, and create avenues for flourishing for all students.
Excellence in Instruction
The Excellence in Instruction category honors educators who design innovative learning experiences and drive outstanding academic outcomes for students. Candidates for this category are creative educators with proven track records of student academic success. They provide rigorous, engaging, and personalized learning experiences for all students.
Excellence in Leadership
The Excellence in Leadership category honors the innovative ways that educators exhibit the behaviors described in the MNPS Teacher Leadership Framework. Candidates for this category are teacher leaders who have supported educator development and student learning in their schools.