Awards
for Schools and Teachers
EdTA’s awards program honors members, volunteers, and supporters for their notable accomplishments in theatre education. Most are awarded annually. The nomination and application period for each academic year is January 1 through April 1 except where noted.
Educator Awards
The Stephen Schwartz Musical Theatre Teacher of the Year Award is presented by The ASCAP Foundation and the Educational Theatre Association. This award recognizes the highest level of achievement for a high school or middle school musical theatre teacher and includes a cash prize of $5,000. Nominations for a working theatre teacher (not retired) who produces musicals at their school may be submitted by anyone (self, student, peer, principal, etc.).
Applications for the 2023 award will begin to be accepted March 7.
The Educational Theatre Association Administrator’s Award recognizes outstanding school administrators who have demonstrated exemplary support for educational theatre.
The Educational Theatre Association Hall of Fame Award is presented annually to up to five EdTA members who have dedicated twenty or more years to promoting educational theatre.
The International Thespian Society Inspirational Theatre Educator Award recognizes up to three individuals annually who have inspired their students and dedicated themselves to providing quality theatre education.
School and Troupe Awards
The Educational Theatre Association Outstanding School Award is given annually to a maximum of twelve high schools (up to three per region) with theatre programs that exemplify and promote high standards in educational theatre. Deadline: April 1.
EdTA’s Premiere Communities distinction recognizes schools and school systems that exemplify excellence in theatre education. Rooted in EdTA’s Opportunity to Learn Standards for Theatre Education, the distinction is awarded to schools and districts that provide teachers and students with the resources to achieve at or above standard as suggested by the National Core Arts Standards in Theatre. Application period: August 1 -January 31.
The Theatre in our Schools (TIOS) Outstanding Impact Award recognizes up to three Thespian troupes annually who have made a significant impact in their school and community. Applications are accepted when Theatre in Our Schools month (March) is drawing to a close. Learn how to apply.
Community Awards
The Educational Theatre Association’s Founders’ Award is presented to an individual or group who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of theatre education, research and practice. The award recognizes work that supports the principles and mission of the founders to promote and strengthen theatre education.
This award is selected by EdTA staff but we welcome nominations for consideration.
The Educational Theatre Association’s President’s Award is presented to an individual who has made exceptional contributions to the Association, EdTA President, board of directors, or volunteer leadership of EdTA.
The recipient is selected by the sitting EdTA board president.
The Educational Theatre Association’s Standing Ovation Award recognizes organizations or corporations who support the principles and mission of the Association.
The Educational Theatre Association’s Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes individuals who support the association through exceptional volunteer efforts.
This award is selected by EdTA staff but we welcome nominations for consideration.
The International Thespian Society Spirit of Thespis Award recognizes up to three schools or individuals that when faced with a serious challenge demonstrated grace under pressure.
This award is selected by EdTA staff but we welcome nominations for consideration.
The International Thespian Society Honorary Thespian of the Year Award recognizes up to three individuals annually who have gone above and beyond the standard duties of a volunteer.
Past award recipients can be viewed in the Awards library.
Interested in serving as an adjudicator? Please complete the application.
Email awards@schooltheatre.org with any questions.
