Nominations still open for Lakin Outstanding Teacher award

The search is on for the next four educators to be recognized for their life-changing work in the classroom. The Charles E. Lakin Foundation is officially accepting nominations for its 2026 Outstanding Teacher Award, a long-standing tradition that shines a spotlight on the educators transforming lives within Southwest Iowa’s rural schools.
Since 2008, the foundation has honored 64 teachers who embody the spirit of dedication and innovation. This year, four more exemplary educators, two elementary and two secondary, will each be surprised with a $10,000 award in recognition of their commitment to their students and communities. In addition, the school districts who employ the Lakin Outstanding Teacher award winners will each receive an additional $2,500.
Jennifer Green, representing the Charles E. Lakin Foundation, said Lakin created the Outstanding Teacher Award as a reward for all the teachers who helped him as a child.
“Lakin had many terrific teachers who taught him all the things he needed to know, and he was able to grow up and make a lot of good business decisions, and make a lot of money,” said Green. “Lakin decided later in life that he wanted to reward outstanding teachers like the ones who helped him get to where he was.”
The award focuses on school districts within a 40-mile radius of Emerson, the hometown of the Foundation’s founder, Charles Lakin. The selection process is designed to highlight the quality and depth of the stories shared by nominators, rather than the number of nominations an educator receives.
The Red Oak School District’s most recent Lakin Outstanding Teacher award recipient was Inman Elementary third grade teacher Kristina Chilton, who received the award during a special ceremony in May of 2023. Three Red Oak teachers have won the award.
Students, parents, colleagues, and community members are encouraged to share their stories of educational excellence.
• Where to Nominate: Visit ghaea.org to access the official nomination form.
• The Deadline: All submissions must be received by March 31.
• Winners will be announced and celebrated in May.
Don’t miss this chance to honor an outstanding teacher who makes a difference every day. Nominate someone special today.
The Charles E. Lakin Foundation is dedicated to supporting education and rural communities through philanthropic initiatives. Its Outstanding Teacher Award highlights the extraordinary contributions of educators who inspire and empower the next generation.