Everyone remembers a favorite teacher, someone who motivates and inspires students for a lifetime. Minnesotans have the opportunity again this fall to nominate that unique educator for Minnesota Teacher of the Year.

Nominations are open and may be submitted online through Nov. 15, according to a press release.

The 2020 Teacher of the Year will be named at a ceremony May 3 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. The Minnesota Teacher of the Year also becomes Minnesota’s candidate for National Teacher of the Year.

Eligible nominees must meet these criteria:

Teach in a public or nonpublic pre-kindergarten through 12th grade school or in an Adult Basic Education or Early Childhood Family Education program, working at least 50% of the time directly with students.

Hold a bachelor’s degree and a Minnesota teaching license.

Have completed five years of teaching by the nomination deadline.

Intend to teach during the 2020-21 school year.

Anyone may nominate a teacher. Self-nominations are also accepted.

According to a press release, the state program has been highly successful nationally – Minnesota ranks third in the nation with four National Teachers of the Year.

For more information or to receive a paper nomination form, call Ashley Behrens at 651-292-4862 or 800-652-9073.