Olive Foster Outstanding Teacher Award

About this program

The Illinois State Historical Society offers the annual Olive Foster Outstanding Teacher Award, a $1,000 honor recognizing full-time Illinois elementary, middle, junior high, or high school teachers who develop innovative approaches to engaging students in Illinois history. Eligible nominees must demonstrate meaningful classroom and community involvement with local museums, historical societies, or other Illinois historical organizations. Nominations may be submitted by any person or group and must include the teacher’s professional information, a detailed description of accomplishments and impact, supporting materials, and a letter of recommendation; submissions are due by January 15 each year.