The Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education is partnering with Google for the 2026 Iowa STEM Teacher Award. The nomination process was announced at the Iowa State Fair during STEM Day and nominations will be accepted through Wednesday, Oct. 22.
Now in its 12th year, the Iowa STEM Teacher Award recognizes one full-time, licensed PK-12 teacher from each of the state’s six STEM regions whose passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) motivates their students to develop a lifelong interest in STEM fields—both in and out of the classroom. The six selected recipients will each receive an award of $1,500 for their classrooms and $1,500 for personal use.
“STEM Teacher Awards help honor Iowa’s educators who engage learners, inspire curiosity, and illuminate in-demand STEM careers in their communities,” said Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow. “With your nominations and Google’s support, the Department is excited to celebrate outstanding teachers who are shaping the future of STEM.”
Teacher nominees will be given the opportunity to submit an application to showcase their work and curriculum. Following a review and selection process, six Iowa STEM teachers will be chosen as 2026 Iowa STEM Teacher Award recipients, recognizing the significant difference they are making in the lives of students.
“We deeply appreciate Google’s partnership in recognizing teachers in Iowa with a true passion for STEM education,” said Iowa STEM Bureau Chief Justin Lewis. “It takes a great deal of care and planning to craft an excellent educational experience that connects with students and excites them about the endless possibilities in the world of STEM.”
Any individual can nominate a teacher by visiting educate.iowa.gov/STEM/TeacherAward and completing the nomination form by 4:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 22. Additional information on the Iowa STEM Teacher Award, including past awardees, can be found on the Iowa Department of Education’s website. The award recipients will be announced in early 2026.