Introducing the Little Readers Big Change Terrific Teacher Award!

At Little Readers Big Change, we believe that teachers and librarians are at the heart of every community, inspiring and shaping the future of our children. That’s why we’re proud to announce the first annual Little Readers Big Change Terrific Teacher Award, created in partnership with Row House Publishing and Wheat Penny Press.

This award, timed to coincide with Teacher Appreciation Week in May 2026, will celebrate K–12 public school teachers and librarians, or retired educators, in the United States and Puerto Rico who are making a profound impact in the lives of young readers. The award is designed to coincide with the release of our upcoming Hidden Histories Series title, Terrific Teachers, set for May 5, 2026.

Nominations are open now through September 30, 2025.

Official Rules

  • Teachers and librarians must be K–12 public school educators or librarians working full-time in the United States or Puerto Rico, or retired from full-time teaching or library work.

    You can nominate a childhood teacher, colleague, child’s teacher, librarian, or any educator from your community who is making a difference!

    • a $2,500 grant as a thank you for their incredible contributions to education

    • a two-page illustrated spread in Terrific Teachers, the second book in Wheat Penny Press’s Hidden Histories series, released during Teacher Appreciation Week in May 2026

    • their work recognized alongside other celebrated educators, past and present

    In addition, 14 runner-ups will each receive $250 and will have their bio and illustrated image featured in the Terrific Teachers.

  • To nominate your Terrific Teacher or Librarian, simply fill out the nomination form on this page. Share why you believe this educator deserves to be celebrated for their dedication to literacy, community, and social change.

  • The nomination period ends September 30, 2025. Submissions received after that will not be considered.

    The winning teacher and runners-up will be announced on World Teachers' Day, October 5, 2025.

Tell us about your Terrific Teacher!