Presidential Cybersecurity Education Award – US

The award is bestowed annually to two teachers — one at the elementary level and one at the secondary level — who “demonstrate superior achievement in instilling skills, knowledge, and passion with respect to cybersecurity and cybersecurity-related subjects.” These recipients embody the dedication and expertise of educators who are critical to increasing the cybersecurity awareness of all students, inspiring the nation’s future cybersecurity workforce, and contributing to a more secure society. The award acknowledges both the exemplary achievements demonstrated by the teachers and that of the teacher’s students.

Teachers from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), and Tribal Nations schools are eligible to apply or be nominated.

Award recipients embody the expertise and dedication of teachers who are critical to increasing the cybersecurity awareness of all students, inspiring the nation’s future cybersecurity workforce, and contributing to a more secure society.

Why Apply?

• The Administration and Secretary are committed to enhancing the cybersecurity workforce and recognizing the cybersecurity teachers who serve a critical role in the development of America’s future cybersecurity professionals. The United States Government also recognizes the challenges and successes teachers face daily in the highly technical field of cybersecurity education. Therefore, this award highlights the accomplishments of two teachers by providing recognition, such as:
  • A certificate signed by the Secretary;
  • Public recognition as a leader in the field of cybersecurity education; and
  • Attendance at events, as appropriate, which may include professional development opportunities, discussions with policymakers on how to improve cybersecurity education, and opportunities to build lasting partnerships with colleagues across the nation.
• Nominees must:
  • Be a “teacher” as defined in this announcement;
  • Instill in their students skills, knowledge, and passion with respect to cybersecurity or cybersecurity-related subjects, increase students’ awareness of cybersecurity issues, and encourage their students to explore further education and careers in cybersecurity or cybersecurity-related subjects as part of their teaching responsibilities at a public or private “elementary school” or “secondary school,” as defined in this announcement;
  • Be a full-time employee of the elementary school or secondary school, or school district, as determined by state and school district policies;
  • Teach in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the DoDEA, or Tribal Nations schools;
  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident; and
  • Have not received this award before.

For more information, visit U.S. Department of Education.