Ohio Teacher of the Year 2026 Nominations

Don’t miss the opportunity to recognize outstanding teachers. Nominations are being accepted now through March 31 for the next Ohio Teacher of the Year. Anyone may nominate one or multiple teachers. School administrators, colleagues, community members, parents, or students may submit a nomination from a district or school building. (Self-nominations are not accepted). Each qualified nominee will receive a copy of their nomination, a certificate of recognition, and an invitation to apply to the program after the nomination period closes.

Spotlight on Professional Conduct: Alcohol-Related Misconduct

The Office of Professional Conduct sees many alcohol-related cases involving teachers, coaches, and other licensed educators each year. These incidents, including being under the influence while on school premises or at school activities, having multiple OVI-related convictions, and other criminal convictions while under the influence, are serious violations of the Licensure Code of Professional Conduct. Review Principles 4 and 6 of the Licensure Code and #ABConduct Tip Sheet #4 for more information on how to mitigate risk and act professionally regarding alcohol.

State Board of Education Accepting Teacher Nominations for Educator Standards Board

The State Board of Education is accepting nominations now through March 14 for school district teachers to serve on the Ohio Educator Standards Board (ESB) from June 2025 through June 2027. The ESB meetings are held virtually seven times a year. Nomination applications are requested for elementary school teachers, middle school teachers, secondary school teachers, teachers in chartered nonpublic schools, and community school representatives. Teachers must submit a letter of support from their district superintendent to the State Board of Education.

Licensure Rules Open for Public Comment

The State Board of Education is seeking public input on the following rules:

• Rule 3302-24-29 Temporary Military Duty Licenses
• Rule 3302-25-02 One-Year Educational Aide Permits
• Rule 3302-25-03 One-Year Student Monitor Permits
• Rule 3302-25-05 Four-Year Educational Aide Permits
• Rule 3302-25-08 Validity of Educational Aide Permits
• Rule 3302-24-22 Career-Technical Workforce Development Teaching Licenses

The drafts of these rules may be viewed from the State Board of Education website. The deadline for submitting comments is March 11, 2025.