AEF Updates Arizona Teacher of the Year Timeline
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Phoenix, AZ – November 2025
The Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) is pleased to announce an updated timeline for the Arizona Teacher of the Year Awards program. This change was made to better align with the school year calendar and to allow the selected Arizona Teacher of the Year more time to prepare for participation in the National Teacher of the Year program.
For the upcoming cycle, nominations will open November 1 and close March 1, with applications due by April 1. The 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year will be announced in August 2026. Beginning the following year, the nomination window will permanently move to August, ensuring that the process fits naturally within the academic calendar moving forward.
AEF CEO Kim Graham shared that the decision came after careful consideration and input from educators and program partners. “Arizona’s teachers are at the heart of everything we do,” she said. “By adjusting our timeline to match the rhythm of the school year, we’re making it easier for educators, administrators, and communities to participate in the nomination process—and giving our Teacher of the Year the time and support needed to shine nationally.”
The Arizona Teacher of the Year Awards, presented annually by the Arizona Educational Foundation, celebrate the dedication and excellence of Arizona’s public school teachers. Each year, ten exceptional educators are recognized as finalists and semi-finalists for their leadership, innovation, and commitment to student success. One of these outstanding individuals is then selected as the Arizona Teacher of the Year, representing the state at the national level through the National Teacher of the Year Program.
Since its inception, the Arizona Teacher of the Year program has honored educators who go above and beyond in their classrooms and communities, serving as advocates for students and ambassadors for public education. The updated schedule will not only simplify the nomination and review process for schools and districts but will also give
the selected Teacher of the Year additional preparation time to engage with national networks, develop outreach plans, and represent Arizona on a broader stage.
In addition to the updated timeline, AEF is working to enhance the overall experience of the awards program and event. More information about the 2027 Arizona Teacher of the Year Awards ceremony—including date, location, and sponsorship opportunities—will be shared at a later time.
To learn more about the Arizona Teacher of the Year program or to submit a nomination, please visit https://www.azedfoundation.org/.