Program Enhancements

Stemming from the program bias review conducted by external consultant Hyphens & Spaces in Fall 2024, LCF has made program enhancements and plans to enact more recommendations in the coming program years.

Completed:

Consider a broader nomination process in which students, colleagues, parents, and other community members can support and attest to the applicant's qualifications as an advocate.

Currently Underway:

Provide a rubric template with standard elements that states can modify or tailor to meet local needs.
Share links from all state/regional websites to outline the full application process.
Target a different underrepresented state, language, or identity group each year to encourage a more diverse candidate pool.
Make online materials available in specific languages, as requested, to better promote the awards, explain the process, and encourage non-native English speakers to apply.
Provide videos, illustrations, or diagrams outlining the application process flow.
Continue to collect and insist on the necessity of state and regional data, which helps build a culture of diligence.

Completed:

Allow the selection committee to offer feedback to candidates on their speeches, then provide candidates the opportunity to modify and deliver their speeches at the ACTFL convention.

Currently Underway:

Enhance the award package to better reflect and honor the expectations placed upon the National recipient during their year of service.
Formalize the roles and contributions of program alumni to support future educators.

2025 ToY group — 2025 National Language Teacher of the Year Finalists and members of the selection committee

Teacher of the Year Resource Guide

Program Enhancements