The Latest from VEA

Association members, other individuals, and lots of organizations are going above and beyond on behalf of public schools, students, and educators, and the VEA believes such effort should not go unnoticed or unrewarded. To be sure it doesn’t, VEA’s annual awards program honors efforts made on behalf of our young people and our schools, and so nominations are now open for the following VEA awards:

• Friend of Education Award. VEA’s highest honor recognizes an individual or organization whose leadership, acts or support has significantly benefited education, education employees or students in Virginia. Nomination deadline: January 3, 2025.

• Fitz Turner Award: Honors outstanding contributions in intergroup relations and the enhancement of respect for human and civil rights. Nomination deadline: January 17, 2025.
• Mary Hatwood Futrell Award: Honors leadership in fostering equality in educational opportunity and promoting equity and excellence in public education. Nomination deadline: January 17, 2025.
• Barbara Johns Youth Award: Honors a student or student organization whose activities promote the dignity and esteem of others. Nomination deadline: January 17, 2025.
• Award for Teaching Excellence: The highest honor VEA gives for creativity and excellence in the classroom. Nomination deadline December 31, 2024.
• VEA Fund Award for Political Activism. Honors VEA locals for outstanding achievement in political organizing and activism. Nomination deadline: January 17, 2025.
• Robley S. Jones Political Activist Award: Honors individuals for their contributions to education legislation or policy, or to the election of public education-friendly candidates. Nomination deadline: January 17, 2025.
• Education Support Professional of the Year: Honors the contributions of an ESP to his or her school, community and profession. Nomination deadline: January 17, 2025.
• Martha Wood Distinguished Service Award: Honors a retired educator who has made significant contributions to the growth of the active and retired Association, the promotion of public education, and the welfare of public educators. Nomination deadline: January 8, 2025.
• A+ Award for Membership Growth: Honors local Associations for growth, given in three size categories.

Visit VEA’s Awards Page for More Information and to Nominate