The change is meant to elicit a broader representation of teachers from across the state and to ensure every exceptional Oklahoma educator is eligible for recognition, especially in districts that do not select a district-level teacher of the year.   

School principals and district superintendents are encouraged to honor classroom teachers at the local level by providing them with the opportunity to participate. Nominees should be exceptionally skillful and dedicated classroom teachers who demonstrate creative and effective teaching with students of all backgrounds and abilities. 

The 2022 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year application packet is due August 31.  

The Oklahoma Teacher of the Year serves as the state’s ambassador of teaching, sharing knowledge and resources with fellow educators around Oklahoma while encouraging education as a profession. The next Teacher of the Year will be named in March 2022.