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BLUE HERON EDUCATOR AWARDS

In a time when education is evolving—and when educators are facing extraordinary challenges—we believe it’s more important than ever to honor the people guiding, uplifting, and reimagining what’s possible for young people. Now in its fifth year, the Blue Heron Educator Awards were first created by Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School to recognize exceptional educators in their community. In 2025, we're proud to expand this celebration nationwide across all Outward Bound Schools. 

Nominate Your Educator

 
Who the Blue Heron Educator Awards Honor: 

Whether in classrooms, school communities, or youth-serving organizations, these awardees are: 

  • Leading with integrity, compassion, and perseverance 
  • Modeling the values we hope to see in the next generation 
  • Inspiring students to grow, connect, and thrive 
  • Reimagining education to meet today’s needs with courage and hope for the future 
A Celebration of Local Impact:  

For the first time ever, the 2025 Blue Heron Educator Awards will reach from the classrooms of New York City and Baltimore to the backcountry of Colorado and the California coast—recognizing outstanding educators from across the country who exemplify Outward Bound’s values in action. 

This campaign is about more than recognition—it’s about celebrating educators during a pivotal moment in the future of learning. 

Nominate an Educator  

Nominations are open from May 5-31, 2025 

We invite you to nominate an educator who is making a difference—whether a teacher, school leader, youth program facilitator, or educational partner. Their story could inspire thousands, and their work helps us all envision a stronger, more compassionate future of education. 

Nominate Your Educator

Nominator (That's you!)



(former student, fellow teacher, parent, program partner, etc.)
Nominee (The awesome educator!)






If you’d like to submit your nomination via video, please email: [email protected]

Contact Information

What will they win?  

Recipients of the Blue Heron Educator Award will be honored with a handcrafted award recognizing their dedication, passion, and impact in shaping future leaders through education. Each Outward Bound School may also offer additional prizes—such as a one-day team-building experience—tailored to celebrate winners at the local level.* 

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