OUR COMMITMENT TO
SUPPORT EDUCATORS

"I am truly honored to be awarded the NSHSS Claes Nobel Educator of the Year Award. This recognition represents more than a personal achievement; it affirms the importance of student wellness, social-emotional learning, and the role educators play in creating spaces where students feel seen, supported, and empowered. This opportunity would allow me to continue expanding meaningful counseling and wellness initiatives, including mindfulness-based supports that complement students’ academic journeys. In a rigorous early college environment, students need more than academic preparation; they need tools to manage stress, build resilience, and strengthen emotional intelligence. Every initiative is rooted in the belief that when students are supported emotionally and mentally, they are better prepared to thrive academically, personally, and beyond the classroom. The NSHSS Claes Nobel Educator of the Year Award would support continued professional training, including participation in professional development conferences, and provide additional tools to help me remain an effective, innovative, and responsive school counselor. This opportunity would allow me to further contribute to the field through student-centered programming, evidence-based practices, and continued advocacy for mental health in schools. Thank you for recognizing the work of educators who believe that student success begins with connection, wellness, and hope."

"I can't wait to share this wonderful news with the amazing student leaders of our school's Model United Nations (MUN)! This NSHSS grant will enable our group to attend more conferences. My students are enthusiastic and driven. They are also not your typical MUN club. My students will be the first in their families to attend college. Often, our students are the only African American or Latinx students at the conferences we attend. I support MUN because it fosters diplomacy, and an understanding of international issues, and encourages young people to become global citizens. On a personal note, attending MUN conferences also gives my students the space to meet and interact with academically motivated young people, something of a precursor to the students they will encounter in college."

"I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to support our robotics team through this generous grant. Operating a competitive robotics program comes with significant costs, but the skills and experiences these students gain are priceless. This funding will help us provide students with hands-on STEM opportunities that will be invaluable as they prepare for the challenges and innovations of the 21st century. Thank you for empowering our team to dream bigger and work towards a brighter future."

"Thank you, NSHSS, for helping to provide the tools needed to make my classroom a fun and effective place to learn and grow!"

"It has been amazing to see that the NSHSS supports not just students, but also teachers. These grants allow teachers to explore new areas and try unique ideas that might not have been previously possible."

"I am excited and thankful to NSHSS for selecting me for this grant award. NSHSS grants and awards are truly prestigious, and I look forward each year to not only participate in the writing and competition, but also nominating my students for NSHSS scholarships."

"I am truly thankful for this wonderful blessing that was bestowed upon me and my cross country team for this monetary gift in the form of a grant. NSHSS has been a truly awesome program to be a part of that I try to share with my students as a teacher, advisor, and coach. The opportunities that are available are truly top notch. Thank you."

"There will always be a new idea that teachers have that can make the classroom a more meaningful and exciting place for students. There is not always district funding. NSHSS has provided my classroom with funds more than once over the course of my entire teaching career. Whether it's an expanded film library or more production equipment, my students have had more opportunities to do college level work and feel like professionals because of NSHSS grants. Thank you, NSHSS! Please keep supporting teachers! Teachers, if you have an exciting idea and need support—apply!"

'I am excited to be a recipient of the educators' professional development grant. There are so many great educator conferences, but I cannot afford to attend if my district is not covering the cost. Being a member of NSHSS allows educators the opportunity to pursue additional professional development too."