Wyoming Education Association Awards

Each year, the WEA honors members and community leaders across the state in a variety of education-related awards. Help us celebrate these individuals – submit your nomination today!

Nominations for the 2026 Awards are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026.

Submit Your Nomination

The Awards

Gold Key Award

The most prestigious award conveyed by the Wyoming Education Association is presented for extraordinary service which has contributed to the professional development of WEA and to the enhancement and advancement of education in Wyoming.

2025 Winner:

John Trohkimoinen, formerly of Casper

Teaching Excellence

This honor is given to a member who demonstrates instructional expertise, creativity, innovation and advocacy for the profession.

2025 Winner:

Mason Magagna, Cheyenne

ESP Award

The award is presented to a member whose activities reflect the contributions of education support professionals to public education.

2025 Winner:

Patt Hilmer, Worland

Friend of Education Award

This honor recognizes a person or group who have demonstrated evidence of exceptional service to teachers, schools, and children in public education.

2025 Winner:

The Yellow Dot Group, Casper

Harriett 'Liz' Byrd Award

Named in honor of the groundbreaking Wyoming legislator, the award recognizes an individual or group for outstanding contributions in the areas of human relations, multiculturalism, or diversity in the field of education, promoting collaboration and harmony.

2025 Winner:

Michelle Rooks, Jackson

Green Apple Award

This recognizes a member who contributes to environmental awareness, strengthening the bond between education and the environment.

2025 Winner:

Melissa Harris, Dubois

Higher Education Award

This honor is presented to a member whose activities reflect the contributions of higher education professionals.

2025 Winner:

No award given

School Bell Award

This award is for a representative of the media for outstanding coverage of education news and issues, given in appreciation of excellence in the field of journalism pertaining to Wyoming education.

2025 Winner:

No award given

Have Questions?

Only WEA members are eligible to submit nominations.

The WEA Board of Directors makes the selection on the winners for each year.

Nominations must be submitted before 5 pm on Friday, January 30, 2026 via the form below.

Questions about the nomination process?

Contact Bobbie at bladwig@wyoea.org or 800.442.2395

Nomination Form

Please provide a narrative (500 words or fewer) sharing why you feel the nominee deserves this honor. You can provide supporting documentation or letters of support. Additional information can be found under "nomination guidelines."

Accepted File Types: DOC, PDF, JPG, and PNG files.