State-certified public school educators currently serving in Texas, along with students enrolled in Texas public schools, are eligible to participate. Eligibility also extends to Texas public school principals, school districts, and school boards. Additionally, any early childhood education center or school operating within the state may apply.

You can review the full eligibility details for each category here:

• Student

• Teacher

• School Counselor

• Principal

• Admin Support Staff

• District Leadership

• Early Childhood

• School Board

• Community Partners

• Student

• Teacher

• School Counselor

• Principal

• Admin Support Staff

• District Leadership

• Early Childhood

• School Board

• Community Partners

Nominations are optional. Any educator who meets the eligibility requirements is fully able to apply directly, with or without a nomination.

Yes, you can nominate as many educators, school districts, school counselors, school boards, or early childhood centers as you wish. Just keep in mind that repeating nominations for the same person or organization won’t increase their likelihood of winning. Award recipients are chosen based entirely on the quality of the educator’s completed application.

The nomination window for the Inaugural Avidity Education Awards ends January 20, 2026. All applications must be submitted by January 20, 2026, and supporting letters from a principal or administrator are due no later than January 25, 2026.

Finalists and winners will be determined by a distinguished panel of Texas educators, administrators, and community leaders, ensuring a fair, thorough, and highly credible selection process.

The Avidity Education Awards ceremony is set to take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026.