SHAPE Arkansas Teacher & Leader of the Year Awards Overview

The SHAPE Arkansas Teacher & Leader of the Year Awards recognize outstanding educators and school leaders who champion physical education, health education, and overall student wellness across Arkansas. These awards highlight individuals who inspire students, innovate in their teaching, and advocate for lifelong health and fitness.

Each year, SHAPE Arkansas honors teachers and administrators in the following categories:

The TOY Pledge

Teacher of the Year candidates pledge to:

• promote a positive and inclusive learning environment where all students feel encouraged to participate in physical activity and health education.

• Advocate for student health, wellness, and lifelong fitness by implementing innovative and engaging teaching strategies.

• Serve as a mentor and role model for students, colleagues, and the greater education community.

• Encourage and support students in developing lifelong healthy habits through physical education, health education, and overall wellness initiatives.

• Share knowledge and best practices with fellow educators and leaders to help improve health and physical education across Arkansas.

• Represent SHAPE Arkansas with integrity and professionalism, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in education and student development.

​

Award Categories:

​

K-12 Physical Education

Recognizes outstanding K-12 physical education teachers who promote physical education, health, and student well-being through innovative and engaging teaching methods.

 

Elementary School Teacher of the Year (K-5)

Honors an exceptional K-5 teacher who fosters student well-being in the community or classroom through creative and engaging physical education activities , encouraging lifelong fitness and health.

 

Middle School Teacher of the Year (6-8)

Celebrates an outstanding 6-8 educator who fosters high-quality physical education, health education, and wellness initiatives in the community or classroom.

 

High School Teacher of the Year (9-12)

Recognizes a 9-12 teacher who demonstrates excellence in instruction, health promotion, and the development of lifelong fitness habits in students in the community or school.

​

Health Education Teacher of the Year

Honors a K-12 health educator who excels in delivering comprehensive, engaging, and effective health education while fostering student well-being.

 

Sport Coach of the Year

Acknowledges a K-12 coach who not only develops athletic skills in their athletes but also emphasizes character development, sportsmanship, and overall student wellness in the school and community. 

 

Principal of the Year

Recognizes a school principal who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in supporting physical education, health programs, and school-wide wellness initiatives in the school and community.

Selection Process:

• Nominations are submitted by colleagues, students, parents, or community members.

• A selection committee reviews all applications, considering the nominee’s impact, innovation, leadership, and dedication to student wellness.

• Finalists may be invited for an interview or classroom visit (if applicable).

• The winners are announced at the SHAPE Arkansas Annual Conference and receive state-wide recognition.

Award Benefits:

• Statewide Recognition through SHAPE Arkansas media and educational publications.

• Award Presentation at the SHAPE Arkansas Conference, including a plaque, trophy, or banner.

• The Physical Education categories will receive awards from OPEN US Games that will be different from the "school teacher and principal" category awards we, SHAPE Arkansas, have added.  Physical Education categories are eligible to compete at district and national SHAPE America TOY competitions. 

 

These awards celebrate educators and leaders who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of students through health, wellness, and physical activity.