About the Barbara J. Birks Above and Beyond Award

Teaching and school health support are more than professions—they are callings that require heart, dedication, and a deep commitment to helping students thrive. Every day, teachers and school nurses show up in ways that go far beyond their job descriptions, often quietly and without recognition.

At The Undie Chest, we see that commitment—and we want to celebrate it. The Barbara J. Birks Above and Beyond Award was created in loving memory of Barbara J. Birks, mother of Elaine Birks-Mitchell, Founder of The Undie Chest, whose life exemplified compassion, service, and care for others.

This award honors school nurses and teachers across all grade levels who consistently go above and beyond to support their students, schools, and communities. We invite you to share stories that highlight the impact these individuals have made—whether through advocacy, mentorship, compassion, or simply showing up when it mattered most.

By recognizing these everyday heroes, we express our deepest gratitude for the invaluable role they play in creating safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments—where dignity, care, and potential can truly flourish.

Thank you for helping us lift up these powerful stories and the remarkable people behind them. Together, we honor those who remind us that dignity starts with feeling good undie-neath.

Please review our guidelines before submitting your nomination.