Each school year, the state's top agriculture educator is presented with the Golden Owl Award, honoring outstanding achievements and excellence in the field.
To help find Iowa’s next exceptional honoree, nominations for the 2026-27 Golden Owl Award are now being accepted through Dec. 1.
Sponsored by the Iowa FFA Foundation, Nationwide Insurance and other agricultural partners, the award spotlights agriculture educators across the state who go above and beyond in the classroom. Students, colleagues, school staff and community members can submit nominations honoring teachers who build student leadership, bring innovative, hands-on learning into their classrooms and make a lasting impact on their schools and communities.
"Iowa’s position as a leader in ag education has been built by teachers who go above and beyond for their students and communities," said Alan Spencer, State FFA Advisor and consultant for agriculture, food and natural resources at the Iowa Department of Education. "The Golden Owl Award recognizes those teachers and the impact they have every day. As we celebrate their passion and dedication, we encourage communities across Iowa to nominate their local agriculture teachers and help recognize the educators who advance agricultural education in their schools and communities."
Seven educators will be named finalists in early 2027, each receiving $500, an engraved plaque and recognition as one of Iowa's top agriculture educators. The Golden Owl Award winner, announced at the Iowa FFA Convention in April, will receive $3,000, in addition to recognition as Iowa’s top agriculture educator.
Last year, the Golden Owl Award set a record with 834 nominations submitted. Zach Morris of West Liberty High School was named as the 2025-26 winner.
For more information about the Golden Owl Award, contact Alan Spencer at [email protected].