Teacher of the Year Application

Download the 2021 TOY Application Packet and Program Guide

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Please read and follow these instructions carefully. The application format has changed this year and applications not completed as requested will not be accepted.

Applications must be typed and must use only the space provided in this application. Hand written applications will not be accepted.

There are three portions of this application.

• OKTOY Application Packet
• Attachments
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • High Resolution Headshot
• OKTOY Web App
  • Note: The demographics included on the OKTOY Web App will not be seen by the judges during the selection process. In an effort to reach all teachers in Oklahoma, it is important that we gather this demographic information for tracking purposes.

If you are submitting your application for recognition only at the Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year Ceremony but DO NOT wish to participate in the state level Teacher of the Year competitive process, please complete the OKTOY Web App only.

• Please gather all information needed on the form prior to filling it out, as it cannot be saved and completed later.

To submit your full application to be considered for the Oklahoma Teacher of the Year, please follow these steps.

• Complete the OKTOY Application Packet.
  • This includes detailed information from your resume and six essay questions.
  • Essays must be typed within the space provided in the packet. Additional pages will not be accepted.
  • The packet must be signed (digitally or physically) by your principal and superintendent before you upload it to the OKTOY Web App.
  • Application Packet should be titled using your district name and last name in the following format: District_LastName_App.pdf
• Gather your attachments.
  • Letters of Recommendation
    • Three (3) Letters of Recommendation, one (1) of which must be from a parent, colleague, administrator or student. These letters should address why you should be the Oklahoma Teacher of the Year. Each letter must be typed and no longer than one single-sided page.
    • Recommendation letters can be uploaded separately or combined into one .pdf for upload.
    • These should be submitted as .pdf files and titled using your district name and last name in the following format: District_LastName_Rec.pdf
  • Headshot
    • A high-resolution (300 dpi minimum) color digital photo of yourself suitable for publication and press release.
    • This should be submitted as a .jpg file and titled using your district name and last name in the following format: District_LastName_Photo.jpg
  • Complete the OKTOY Web App and upload your attachments.
    • Please gather all information needed on the form prior to filling it out, as it cannot be saved to be completed later.
    • Upload your application packet and attachments.
      • Example
        • OKCPS_Newton_App.pdf
        • OKCPS_Newton_Rec.pdf
        • OKCPS_Newton_Photo.jpg

Applications must be submitted through the OKTOY Web App by 4:00 PM on Monday, August 31, 2020. Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. Please do not include additional materials beyond those listed above.

Again, this is a new application format and we understand if you need assistance. If you have any questions, please contact us and we’ll gladly to help you with the submission process. Please contact:

Justin Newton

Director of Events
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 N. Lincoln Blvd., Ste. B-11
Oklahoma City, OK 73105-4599
(405) 522-8767 • TeacheroftheYear@sde.ok.gov