The College of Education and Human Sciences at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is now accepting nominations for the Christa McAuliffe Prize for Courage and Excellence in Education, an annual award recognizing an outstanding Nebraska teacher.
Established in 1987, this year marks the 40th anniversary of the prize, celebrating four decades of honoring educators who demonstrate exceptional courage, commitment, and impact in their classrooms and communities.
Named in honor of Christa McAuliffe, the first teacher selected to travel to space who tragically lost her life in the 1986 Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, the prize recognizes educators whose work goes beyond excellence to positively influence students, families, and fellow educators.
Faculty, staff, alumni, students, and community members are encouraged to submit nominations and help recognize educators making a meaningful difference across Nebraska. The recipient of the 2026 prize will be announced during the Nebraska Council of School Administrators’ Administrator Days in July.
Nominations are due April 10. To learn more and submit a nomination, visit go.unl.edu/mcauliffe.
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