Excellence begins in Oklahoma’s public school classrooms, where teachers change lives by engaging, challenging and inspiring students.
The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence is now accepting nominations for the Medal for Excellence to honor these dedicated educators.
One of Oklahoma’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.
Anyone can nominate an educator for a Medal for Excellence, including colleagues, community members and current or former students. Nominations must be submitted by 5 p.m. Oct. 3.
“Our state is home to thousands of outstanding educators, and by putting them in the spotlight, we send a strong message about the value of their work and of public education in Oklahoma,” said OFE Executive Director Elizabeth Inbody. “We encourage Oklahomans to take a few minutes to nominate an educator who is making a tremendous impact on our public school students.”
Only five educators receive the award annually. One honoree is selected in each of the following categories: Elementary Teaching, Secondary Teaching, Elementary/Secondary Administration, Regional University/Community College Teaching and Research University Teaching.
OFE will honor the Medal for Excellence recipients at the 40th annual Academic Awards Celebration on May 2, 2026, at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. Each recipient receives a $5,000 prize, a medallion and an etched glass “Roots and Wings” sculpture.
An independent selection committee chooses the honorees. The committee is comprised of business, education and civic leaders, as well as past award recipients.
Detailed award criteria and access to the nomination portal are available at OFE.org.
Founded in 1985, OFE is a statewide, nonpartisan nonprofit that recognizes and encourages academic excellence in Oklahoma’s public schools. The foundation elevates public education through esteemed honors, grants to K-12 mentoring programs, support for public school foundations and partnerships that provide exceptional professional development to educators.
