Philanthropist Harold Grinspoon has always felt strongly about the need to acknowledge and reward those unseen heroes who quietly make a difference in our lives and our communities. With that goal in mind, in 2003 the Harold Grinspoon Foundation launched the Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Awards.
“Teachers are so important to the development of our children. Anything we can do to support them, show our deep gratitude and nurture them is incredibly valuable”. HAROLD GRINSPOON
The program annually honors more than a hundred outstanding Western Massachusetts educators in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden counties and seeks to motivate teachers at all stages of their careers to aspire to excellence. Since its inception over 2000 educators have been recognized. Today, the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation partners with the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation to make the Excellence in Teaching Awards possible.
Winners are celebrated at three festive awards banquets attended by their families, colleagues, and friends along with many dignitaries.
“To receive such an honor midway through my career inspires me to continue to improve my craft”A 20-YEAR HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER IN AMHERST
A new winner is announced with a surprise celebration in the classroom
The active participation of school districts is critical to the program’s success. Superintendents and heads of school act as, or appoint, representatives to oversee a process determined by each district for selecting Excellence in Teaching Award recipients. Eligible educators must teach full time and be certified in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the number of awards in each district is based on student population. Districts with more than 1500 enrolled students are eligible to also nominate candidates for a “New Teacher” award, which recognizes promising educators with less than three years experience.
“As a ‘new teacher’ recipient, I feel the award affirms that my teaching strategies are effective and that I am creating an impact on my students. ”A 2-YEAR TEACHER IN WILBRAHAM
Learn about our program partners and supporters HERE