This national award, made possible through a generous gift by long-time educator and AAE member Darrell Holmquist and his wife Suzanne, celebrates student teachers who have excelled in this critical phase of education training. It especially acknowledges the many enlightening experiences and opportunities for professional growth student teachers encounter as they apply their years of coursework, preparation, and theoretical knowledge in a classroom setting for the first time.
The Darrell and Suzanne Holmquist Student Teacher of the Year Award includes $250 toward setting up a new classroom and a one-year professional membership in AAE.
All educators are encouraged to nominate a student teacher.
Eligibility: The competition is open to all education students who have completed their student teaching in the 2024-2025 school year and will be entering the classroom for the first time in fall 2025. Self-nominations are not accepted.
Application Deadline: May 31, 2025
For further information and questions regarding the program, email megan@aaeteachers.org.
The Association of American Educators (AAE) is the largest national, non-union, professional educator organization, advancing the profession by offering a modern approach to educator empowerment and advocacy—promoting professionalism, collaboration, and excellence without a partisan agenda. AAE is committed to a teaching profession that is student oriented, well respected, and personally fulfilling. AAE serves members in all fifty states and welcomes professionals from all education entities. Membership includes $2 million professional liability insurance, employment rights coverage, professional resources, and many other benefits. Classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators, student teachers, university professors, and supporters can learn more at joinaae.org.