ASCD Awards
We recognize educators and districts throughout the education ecosystem for their achievements, impact and potential.
We recognize educators and districts throughout the education ecosystem for their achievements, impact and potential.
ASCD Impact Award
The ASCD Impact Award celebrates exceptional individuals who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to enhancing learning opportunities and driving innovation in education. These distinguished champions have made significant contributions to narrowing opportunity gaps and fostering a more equitable education system.
To Qualify:
Their innovative initiatives resonate not only within the national or global education community, but also promise enduring impact on student learning for years to come.
Award candidates embody the transformative spirit that shapes the future of education by redefining learning, teaching, and leadership.
ASCD Impact Award Winners
Denise Forte, President and CEO, The Education Trust
Denise Forte, president and CEO at The Education Trust, is a prominent advocate for education equity, and was named among Washingtonian's 500 Most Influential People for two consecutive years. With a focus on evidence-based strategies, she leads efforts to create high-achieving learning environments, bridging gaps for students of color and those from low-income backgrounds.
Forte joined Ed Trust in 2019, initially serving as senior vice president for partnerships and engagement, expanding the organization's reach. In January 2023, she assumed the role of president and CEO. Her extensive public service includes 20 years on Capitol Hill and tenure in the Obama administration's Department of Education.
Nathan R. Monell, CAE, Executive Director, National PTA
Since 2015, Nathan R. Monell has been the executive director of the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA), the oldest and largest child advocacy association in the U.S., encompassing over 20,000 local units, primarily in Title I schools. Dedicated to realizing every child's potential, PTA, with millions of members, focuses on strong family, school, and community partnerships. Monell's leadership at PTA involves advancing family engagement and public policy to enhance the educational success and well-being of children nationwide.
His extensive career includes strategic advocacy for youth and families, fostering care, mental health, and education, and operating at local, state, and federal government levels. Monell is also actively involved in the Prometheus Consortium and the Learning First Alliance. Prior to his work with National PTA, he worked for the National Council of Community and Education Partnerships and Foster Care Alumni of America.
Transformational Learning Leader Award
This award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to education and exemplifies the ISTE+ASCD mission by continually striving to enhance pedagogy and learning for all students. These leaders have fostered environments where students can access meaningful and joyful learning experiences. These esteemed practitioners have taken bold action towards creating a more innovative and equitable education system.
To Qualify:
Their innovative initiatives resonate not only within their school or district community, but can also be replicated across other education systems.
Their role may supervise instruction, curriculum and/or professional development for a school system or district.
Award candidates embody the transformative spirit that shapes the future of education by redefining learning, teaching, and leadership.
Transformational Learning Leader Winner
Terri Pérez, Director of Professional Learning, Harmony Public Schools
As Director of Professional Learning for Harmony Public Schools, one of Texas's largest charter networks serving over 44,000 students, Terri Pérez has pioneered key leadership development initiatives, including a principal residency and a mentoring program for new school leaders. With over 20 years in education, Terri remains deeply committed to exploring ways in which adult learning can enhance educational equity and improve student outcomes.
ASCD Distinguished District Award
The ASCD Distinguished District Award honors U.S. school districts that are leading the way in education. These districts actively seek and embrace change to elevate teaching and learning, extending their efforts to serve the whole child, while serving as exemplary models for other educational institutions.
To Qualify:
Showcase ingenuity and innovation by implementing effective professional development programs that empower their staff, fostering increased capacity, upskilling, and sustaining high-quality instruction across the entire district.
Demonstrate a commitment to equity by implementing policies and methods that are tailored to enhance learner outcomes. They continuously refine the learning experience for all students, focusing on accessibility, inclusivity, and equity.
Engage all stakeholders, including staff, students, families, and the community, in the process, fostering a collaborative environment that reinforces the district's commitment to comprehensive educational improvement.
ASCD Distinguished Districts
Anne Arundel County Public Schools, Annapolis, Maryland
Mark Bedell, Ed.D., Superintendent
Heidi O’Gilvie, Ph.D., Assistant Superintendent, Professional Growth and Development
Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) is the vibrant educational hub for Anne Arundel County, Maryland, serving over 80,000 students. As the fourth largest school system in Maryland and the 39th largest in the United States, AACPS is a dynamic force in shaping the academic landscape. The mission of AACPS is not merely academic – it's a commitment to nurturing and empowering every student. AACPS aims to equip students not only for academic success but also for active community engagement, seamless career entry, and higher education, fostering a generation capable of crafting a better quality of life for themselves and the communities they serve.
Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, Cypress, Texas
Douglas Killian, Ph.D., Superintendent
Linda Macias, Ed.D. Chief Academic Officer/Associate Superintendent
Situated in the vibrant landscape of Harris County, Texas, the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (CFISD) is a powerhouse of education. Boasting its headquarters in the heart of innovation, CFISD is not just a school district, it's a dynamic hub that caters to the aspirations of over 114,000 students. The driving force behind CFISD is a bold mission to propel each student toward their maximum potential. Through cutting-edge and meaningful learning experiences, CFISD is not just preparing students for the future – it's shaping them into 21st-century global leaders, ready to conquer challenges and redefine the educational landscape.
ASCD 20 to Watch Award
ASCD recognizes 20 individuals who are up and coming, and are already making a difference through their work. Winners have exemplified excellence through projects or artifacts others can replicate.
To Qualify:
Demonstrate the ability to apply innovative thinking, creativity, and equity to improve learning experiences.
Improve their professional practice by continuously exploring new techniques and consistently evaluating and reflecting on current practices.
Share their solutions with others, modeling innovative teaching and learning methods, accelerating good practice and solving tough problems in education.
Applications for 20 to Watch open late 2024.
