Educator Recognition Programs 

We reward teaching excellence through a variety of local and national programs.

Teacher at white board

Local educator recognition programs

Many of Horace Mann’s representatives use programs established by Horace Mann to help recognize education excellence in the schools they serve.

Crystal Apple Award or Crystal Owl Award
Recognizing educators for significant achievements in teaching or the outstanding work they do.

Outstanding School Employee Award
Recognizes school employees who go above and beyond in their contribution to student development.

Mugs and Kisses Award
Recognizes educators for everyday excellence in their profession.

Your local Horace Mann representative can work with school or district administrators to personalize these programs to a school's specific needs.

  • Determining the selection criteria and how recipients are chosen for awards
  • Determining how and when award(s) are presented to recipients
  • Administering the program to complement existing district recognition programs

As the sponsor, your Horace Mann representative would supply the award, present it to the winner(s) and notify local media on the school’s behalf. Contact your local Horace Mann representative for details.

2024 NEAF Horace Mann Excellence

Horace Mann Award for Teaching Excellence

The Horace Mann Educators Foundation partners with the NEA Foundation to recognize, reward and promote excellence in teaching through the annual Horace Mann Awards for Teaching Excellence.

Kathy Fox 2023 Educator of the Year

Educator of the Year Award - Springfield, IL

Horace Mann celebrates educators in the community where it was founded through their annual Educator of the Year Award.