Every year, school districts are encouraged to nominate strong candidates among their teachers. This is open to teachers of all areas such as elementary, secondary, career and technical education, special education, and more.

Whether your district is small or large, the department strives to recognize excellence across our state. Once a district nominates their teacher, the individual’s nominated are then invited to apply for the Regional TOY. A committee reviews each application, with one candidate selected from each region, making up the five regional finalists.

Once all five finalists are selected each is invited to the department for their interview day with the TOY board for selection day. Announcement of the TOY will then take place at the formal banquet in the Fall.