Recognizing Kentucky’s finest educators.

Since 2001, Ashland Inc. and the Kentucky Department of Education have recognized outstanding Kentucky teachers.

The program recognizes 24 Ashland Achievement Awards winners from eight regions of the state. From this group, three are recognized as the state Elementary, Middle and High School Teacher of the Year. These finalists then compete for the overall Kentucky Teacher of the Year.

$10,000 and a unique cameo glass bowl are awarded to the overall Kentucky Teacher of the Year. In addition, the Department of Education provides a professional sabbatical opportunity or a classroom grant. Cash awards of $3,000 each and a cameo glass vase are presented to the other Kentucky Teacher of the Year finalists. The remaining 21 regional finalists each receive cash awards of $500 and a framed certificate.