Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award

Every year, the Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award recognizes an outstanding teacher of blind students.

The education of blind children is one of the National Federation of the Blind's highest priorities. Please help us recognize dedicated and innovative teachers who provide quality education and meaningful experiences and opportunities for their blind students.

Eligibility

Anyone who is currently a teacher, counselor, or the administrator of programs for blind students is eligible. Applicants do not have to be members of the National Federation of the Blind, but attending the NFB National Convention is required.

Nominations

The nomination period has ended.

Applicants can be nominated by colleagues, parents, supervisors, or friends who have first-hand knowledge of the individual’s work with blind students. 

Please complete the application and collect the required documents specified in the application. If you are submitting a nomination for someone other than yourself, please answer the questions to the best of your ability. Your experience and observations of the nominee will assist the selection committee in their decision.

Send all material to Carla McQuillan, chairperson, via email at [email protected] or by mail to 2378 11th Street, Florence, OR 97439. Email is strongly encouraged. Letters of support and other relevant materials should be included as attachments. Applications sent by mail and postmarked by the deadline will also be accepted.

The Award

The Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award is presented at the NFB National Convention. Honorees receive: 

  • An expense-paid trip to attend the convention
  • A check for $1,000
  • A commemorative plaque
  • A place on the agenda of the annual meeting of the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children
  • The opportunity to attend seminars and workshops that address the current state of education of blind students, as well as a chance to meet and network with hundreds of blind individuals, teachers, parents, and other professionals in the field

More Information

For more information, please contact Carla McQuillan, chairperson of the Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award committee, at [email protected] or 541-653-9153.