The Exceptional Educator Award program has been featured on "The Big Spin®" show since April 2001. The Exceptional Educators Award recognizes outstanding teachers whose extraordinary efforts in their schools have added significantly to the success of California students. State Legislators present the awards to the teachers selected as Exceptional Educators.

What qualifies a teacher to be an Exceptional Educator? Here are some examples:

• A teacher who greatly increases the test scores of students
• A teacher who provides extra support to students beyond regular school hours
• A teacher who encourages and enables students to attend college
• A teacher who serve as role model and mentor to other teachers

Take a moment to read the inspiring stories of some our past Exceptional Educators.

If you know a teacher who deserves to be nominated as an "Exceptional Educator", tell us!