2026 NTOY Program Orientation

At this first meeting of the 2026 National Teacher of the Year (NTOY) Program year, State Teachers of the Year will have the opportunity to meet their fellow State Teachers of the Year, understand their individual identities as teachers of the year and learn more about the role of the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) in their journeys. Along with the 2026 cohort of State Teachers of the Year, state coordinators and NTOY program sponsors are welcomed to this conference. Together, we look forward to elevating and celebrating the profession and these teachers. Objectives & Goals: Goal (Teaching & Learning): The National Teacher of the Year Program believes that a sense of community and being in community is essential for sustainable growth and belonging. Through learning and collaboration, teachers apply accomplished teaching skills to a wide range of audiences and purposes to enhance learning for all students. Goal (Communication & Leadership): The NTOY Program believes in empowering teachers through developing and refining their respective voices as a means to thoughtfully navigate and strategically engage with schools, organizations and communities. Goal (Education Policy & Teacher Voice): The NTOY Program believes in utilizing teachers' experience and leadership skills to prepare for policy discussions to center the needs of all students.