The Dow Jones News Fund (DJNF) established the program in 1960 to select one outstanding high school media teacher or adviser each year as National Newspaper Teacher of the Year. Today, the award is referred to as the National Journalism Teacher of the Year and recognizes a high school educator who teaches innovative media techniques, mentors students to produce award-winning journalists and encourages students to consider media careers. Along with the Teacher of the Year, eight additional high school teachers and media advisers who go beyond the call of duty are selected as Distinguished Advisers and Special Recognition Advisers.
CSPA has been a valued co-sponsor of the program for decades, featuring the Teacher of the Year at an advisers luncheon during its Spring convention, providing accommodations, promoting the program and inviting honorees to present sessions. This is the second year that CSPA will take the lead role in promotion, selection and participation of the winners, with DJNF becoming a co-sponsor.
The Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the Dow Jones News Fund, the Poynter Institute and The Wall Street Journal will select one National High School Journalism Teacher of the Year based on their work during the academic year.
Along with the Teacher of the Year, an additional eight (8) high school journalism teachers and media advisers will be named Distinguished Advisers and Special Recognition Advisers.
The National High School Journalism Teacher of the Year receives numerous honors, including:
- a plaque commemorating their achievement;
- a limited edition lapel pin;
- a laptop computer for their newsroom;
- a district substitute teacher per diem;
- a $1,000 scholarship for a graduating senior from the Teacher of the Year's school;
- a year of free webinars from the Poynter Institute; and
- a digital subscription to The Wall Street Journal.
The Teacher of the Year will address journalism educators and media professionals during CSPA's annual student journalism convention in New York City. The honoree will also join a select group of 59 teachers who have previously been honored with this premier achievement.
Distinguished Advisers receive:
- a $500 scholarship for a senior in their school;
- a free webinar from the Poynter Institute; and
- a digital subscription to The Wall Street Journal.
Special Recognition Advisers receive:
- a plaque;
- a digital subscription to The Wall Street Journal; and
- a free Poynter Institute webinar.
Application should be made via an online application, which can be accessed online (click on Link below).
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