The GiveJoy Foundation believes that education is critical to empowering and guiding students to bright futures. As part of our mission to spread joy by providing students with resources related to physical health (body), mental wellness (mind), and character development (heart/soul), we aim to recognize the very individuals who make educating future generations a possibility through the Joy of Teaching Award. 

The Joy of Teaching Award seeks to:  

• Recognize and encourage quality education through excellent, compassionate, and innovative teaching 

• Celebrate the commitment and dedication of education professionals 

• Elevate the image of education and educational institutions through public awareness in our communities  

• Stimulate the personal and professional growth of educators of all levels 

• Encourage inventive classroom activities that will actively inspire students and parents  

• Catalyze the attraction of new people to the education profession 

About Nominations 

Nominations may be submitted by education professionals, parents, or students. Education professionals are allowed to self-nominate. Nominations can be submitted online via a nomination form. Nominees are limited to individuals in the United States. 

Nomination questions include: 

• What are three words to describe the person nominated? Please expand on each of these. 

• How has the nominee demonstrated a commitment to innovative education? 

• Please explain how the nominee’s vision and approach to education aligns with the mission of the GiveJoy Foundation. 

• Please provide one example of how the nominee has made an impact in or brought joy to your life and/or the lives of others on your campus or in your community? 

Nominations will be accepted from March 6th to April 10th. Awardees will be announced during Teacher Appreciation Week.  

For the scope of this program, education professionals are categorized as any individual involved within the school setting in any teaching, paraprofessional, or teacher support roles.  

Award Specifics 

For 2026, THREE Joy of Teaching Award recipients will be selected: 1 from Del Valle ISD; 1 from Bryan ISD; 1 from any educational institution in the US.   

Joy of Teaching Award recipients from Del Valle ISD and Bryan ISD will receive recognition at their schools and by The GiveJoy Foundation, as well as an all-expenses paid trip for two to a Caribbean Resort. The recipient from the national pool of applicants will receive a $1000 American Express Gift Card! 

Please reach out to info@givejoyfoundation.org with additional comments or questions.

Travel must be coordinated and booked within one calendar year of the award date. Resort options are subject to availability at the time of booking.