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."

"Thank you, NSHSS, for support public school students and our Habitat for Humanity Club! I believe that the service-learning trips that our club takes to the Mississippi Delta provide one of our school's best educational experiences for students. Testimonials from the kids are always overwhelmingly positive and often very moving. These grants make a big difference!"

"I would like to sincerely thank the National Society of High School Scholars for providing grant support that enabled me to attend a cross‑border conference focused on molecular biology education. In an increasingly polarized global climate, opportunities for educators to collaborate across borders are not only valuable but essential. This experience allowed me to engage with diverse perspectives, deepen my professional practice, and bring innovative, research‑informed approaches back to my students. I am grateful to NSHSS for its commitment to supporting educators and scholars who are working to advance learning, build understanding, and make a meaningful impact in their communities."

"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."

"Thank you so much for the grant! I love coaching extracurriculars for students, especially those that are academically-oriented. I feel that students who prefer academics over athletics are often overlooked at the high school level. Budgets and boosters are there for football, basketball, and even marching band. However, there is not always support for academic clubs like creative writing or chess. Further, if a school offers advanced academics like computer science and engineering, they have already invested a lot in the day-to-day operations. But what about extra projects or competitions? I will be using this grant to purchase competition polos for our Academic Decathlon team and blazers and neckties/cross ties for our Mock Trial team. The clothing serves as a team uniform, providing identity and showing the students that they are important representatives of our school and district! Thank you so much for making this possible!"

"I have had several students apply for grants and scholarships through the NSHSS and this year I decided I should apply as well! I am excited to use this grant to create more STEAM opportunities for my students this school year!"

"Words cannot express how honored and grateful I am to be selected for this prestigious award. As a passionate educator, I pour my heart and soul into every lesson I deliver. It is a true blessing to be recognized for my unwavering devotion to students and their success. I offer my heartfelt appreciation to the Scholarship & Grants committee for their time in reviewing my application and decision to invest in me and my development as a distinguished educator."

"I am eternally blessed to have received this grant. I am excited at the prospect of providing my students with new resources that can pique their interest and encourage them to pursue a higher level of learning."

"I didn't know much about NSHSS before one of my students nominated me for this award. There is a lot that NSHSS is doing for educators and students alike, in terms of grants, scholarships, networking, etc ... Thank you, NSHSS, for recognizing my work as an educator through this grant."