RECOGNIZING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF OUTSTANDING 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 am incredibly honored to receive this NSHSS grant and truly grateful for its support to my students and UI. This opportunity will allow members of our DECA chapter to travel and compete at the DECA International Conference, giving them invaluable experiences that will enhance their leadership, business skills, and future careers. Thank you, NSHSS, for investing in educators and students—your support makes a lasting impact!"

"Thank you so much for the generous Club Cash grant for our Model United Nations Club. This funding will significantly enhance our activities and initiatives, allowing us to provide enriching experiences for our students. Your support empowers us to create a vibrant community where students can explore their interests, develop their skills, and engage meaningfully with one another. We are excited to put this grant to use and will keep you updated on our progress and the positive impact it has on our members. Thank you once again for believing in our mission and supporting our students."

"I am a music and theater teacher in Fredonia, Kansas. I applied for the NSHSS School Supply Grant to help with the cost of our theater costumes for the musical production of “Beauty and the Beast” that we put on this year. With the grant money I received, we could rent specific costumes for our show, including costumes for the characters Belle, Cogsworth, Lumiere, The Beast, the Wardrobe, and Chip. With the support I received from NSHSS, I could devote more time and money to all aspects of the show, earning our students several nominations for state-wide awards. Thank you for supporting the arts and Fredonia High School!"

"I am so grateful to have received this grant!!! School funding in Texas is a mess and this grant will absolutely help me get equipment and supplies for the higher level learning labs my students require."

"Receiving the NSHSS School Supplies Grant (Wave 2) in 2023 was a transformative experience for both my students and me. The grant provided essential learning materials that significantly enhanced the classroom environment, making learning more engaging and accessible. With these resources, my students expanded their knowledge, actively participated in lessons, and truly enjoyed their time at school. Seeing their excitement and motivation grow reaffirmed my belief in the power of education and the importance of having the right tools to support student success. I am deeply grateful to NSHSS for their commitment to empowering educators and students alike. Thank You Message for the School Club Cash Grant I am honored to receive the NSHSS School Club Cash Grant, which will greatly enhance the extracurricular opportunities available to my students. This funding will help expand the Model United Nations (MUN) Club, Creative Writing Society, and Community Service Outreach Group, providing students with leadership experiences, creative outlets, and opportunities to make a meaningful impact in their communities. NSHSS’s support reaffirms the importance of extracurricular activities in shaping well rounded, confident, and engaged students. Thank you, NSHSS, for believing in the power of education and student leadership I am excited to see my students grow and thrive because of this incredible opportunity!"

"This is the first time I have applied for a grant through NSHSS and I have to share my appreciation for their willingness to help me to help my students and players. The application process was fairly easy, and I am so grateful for the NSHSS."

"Receiving this grant from NSHSS is truly an honor and a meaningful reminder of why I chose to step into education. My journey into the classroom came after many years in the professional world, and I’ve learned that success isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about believing in your ability to grow, take risks, and pursue opportunities. Every day, I strive to create an environment where my students feel valued, capable, and prepared for whatever path they choose. This recognition not only affirms the work happening in my classroom, but it also fuels my passion to continue pouring into my students and helping them see their potential. I am incredibly grateful to NSHSS for investing in educators and for inspiring the next generation to dream big and work hard to achieve those dreams."

"Dear NSHSS, I want to thank you for providing this grant to help my students in the BSU and ASU so they may continue their work in cultivating a sense of belonging for students of all identities at our school. It warms my heart to know that NSHSS truly sees the value in investing in our youth. Please keep making dreams come true and never cease pouring into our greatest natural resource, our youth!"