Nomination period opens for educator, employee of the year awards at ESD 113  

The nomination period is underway for the 2027 Washington State Teacher of the Year and 2026 Classified School Employee of the Year awards at the Educational Service District (ESD) 113. 

Interested individuals, students, families, colleagues and community members may nominate educators until March 2. 

“These programs recognize educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to student success and community connection,” stated the district in a news release about the nominations. 

Regional honorees are selected from ESDs across Washington. After being selected, the would move to the next level where the state selection committee chooses the Teacher of the Year and the Classified School Employee of the Year. 

Eligibility 

Individuals nominated as Teacher of the Year should be a certified teacher who is currently teaching, spends at least 50% of duty time on direct instruction in a classroom,  and plans to continue teaching for at least two more years. 

The nominated Classified Employee of the Year can be any public school staffer who works in a non-executive management position, plans to continue the role through the next school year, and has not received the same regional or state recognition. 

According to the news release, winners are given opportunities to advocate for educational improvements and network with policymakers.