The Biggest Night in Public Education
The NEA Foundation is the proud founder and host of the annual Salute to Excellence in Education. Often referred to as the “Academy Awards of Education,” this event honors outstanding educators and champions of public education from across the country. The Salute to Excellence brings together educators, public education leaders, advocates, elected officials, and members of the business community.
Educator Excellence
Learn more about the 44 educators that was honored with the Travelers Insurance Awards for Teaching Excellence at this year’s NEA Foundation Salute to Excellence In Education
The 2024 Salute to Teaching Excellence took place on May 3, 2024 at The Anthem in Washington, D.C.
We recognize how vital educators are for the future of our nation’s youth, the advancement of equity, the connections within our communities, and the health of our democracy. That’s why The NEA Foundation honored educators with the Travelers Insurance Awards for Teaching Excellence and individuals and organizations shaping the present and future of public education with the Award for Outstanding Service to Public Education, Equity Partner Award, and Student Voice Award.
There’s more—the gala also celebrated friends of The NEA Foundation and champions of public education. We couldn’t do this work without you.
Meet The 2024 Horace Mann Awardees for Teaching Excellence
The Salute to Excellence also included a premiere screening of five short documentaries highlighting the work of five public school educators who have received the 2024 Horace Mann Award, one of the top honors in public education. See how these educators’ work has positively impacted their students, their schools, and their communities here
Each year at our gala we announce one educator to receive the evening’s top honor. The 2024 NEA Member Benefits Award was presented to Kimberly Johnson of Auburn, Alabama.
