Thank You to everyone who nominated so many deserving Teachers!

Our 10 Winners:

Emily Barnette from Callanan Middle School nominated by Sherry Coop
Chase Eremieff from Sugar Creek Elementary nominated by Sandra Ely
Lindsey Updike from Dallas Center Grimes nominated by  Dr. Jody England
Tonya McClure from Taylor Elementary School nominated by Mary Blackburn
Holly Lee from Melcher-Dallas Saints nominated by Darren Bingham
Sarah Fricke from Woodrow Wilson, Newton nominated by  Debbie Durant
Rebecca Eremieff from Runnells Elementary nominated by Sandra Ely
Jenny Petersen from PCM nominated by Carol Rumbaugh
Bailey Fry-Schnormier from Creston HS nominated by Rhonda Giles
Kaitlyn Leabo from Carlisle Middle School nominated by Renee Leabo

 

 

Iowa public school teachers spend an average of $413.35 of their own money each year on classroom supplies. Items such as paper, pencils, books, and decorations.
Despite their dedication, Iowa’s public schools are under more pressure than ever. In 2018, Iowa was ranked the 5th best public school system in the nation. As of 2025, that ranking has dropped to between 13th and 24th, depending on the analysis. And overall, Iowa’s education system is now ranked 29th by WalletHub.

That’s why we’re stepping up to give back in a small but meaningful way.

We’re offering 10 cash prizes of $250 each to public school teachers across Iowa who go above and beyond for their students, nominated by YOU. Whether it’s a teacher who stayed after school to tutor your child, created a reading nook with their own funds, or inspired a love of science through hands-on projects, we want to hear their story.

It only takes a few minutes to nominate a teacher, and your words could be the encouragement they didn’t even know they needed. Let’s celebrate Iowa’s amazing educators. Nominate a teacher today and help us recognize the difference they make every single day!