UCEMSRT is proud to introduce The Above & Beyond Teacher Award, a monthly recognition program created to celebrate the incredible educators who go the extra mile for their students, their school, and their community. This award honors teachers who demonstrate exceptional dedication, compassion, creativity, and leadership — the ones who consistently rise above challenges and make a lasting difference in the lives of young people.

What makes this award truly special is that students themselves get to nominate the teachers who inspire them most. No one sees a teacher’s impact more clearly than the students they support every day, and this award gives them a voice in recognizing the educators who change their lives.

What It Means to Go Above & Beyond

Teachers nominated for this award may:

• Show extraordinary care and support for their students
• Create a classroom environment where everyone feels valued
• Go out of their way to help students succeed academically or personally
• Demonstrate creativity, innovation, or passion in their teaching
• Serve as a mentor, role model, or source of encouragement
• Make learning engaging, meaningful, and accessible
• Support students facing challenges at home or at school
• Bring positivity, hope, and stability to their school community

This award is not about titles or tenure — it’s about heart, dedication, and genuine impact.

Who Can Be Nominated?

Any teacher working in a West Virginia County Public Schools may be nominated.

Who can nominate?

• Students (grades 1–12)
• Student groups or clubs
• Classes submitting a joint nomination

Students are encouraged to share real stories, examples, or moments that show how their teacher has gone above and beyond.

What Award Recipients Receive

Each month, the winning teacher will receive:

• A personalized award certificate
• Recognition on the UCEMSRT website and social media
• A small appreciation gift
• A letter sent to their school administration
• Optional in‑school presentation (if permitted)

A spotlight story featuring student nominations.

How to Nominate a Teacher

Schools will receive a monthly nomination form from UCEMSRT. 

Students may submit nominations through their school or directly through the form.

For additional forms or information, contact:

UCEMSRT – Youth Programs Division 

📞 (681) 217‑0930 

📧 inquiry@ucemsrt.org