WNY Educators have made impactful and long-lasting contributions to the quality of life in our community, state, and country through their work in educating English language learners. The work achieved every day ensures that our ELL students are academically successful to help to support our newest citizens to be prosperous, full participants of a free and democratic society.

For this reason, three awards will recognize outstanding WNY educators who have made notable contributions to our field through efforts such as connecting with the community, acting as a leader in our field, or engaging in meaningful advocacy work on behalf of English language learners. Submissions will be judged based on the candidates’ character, contributions, and their significance.

RBERN West is soliciting nominations for each of the awards. To nominate someone, you must complete the application for the award and submit up to two letters of recommendation. Submissions are due no later than March 28, 2024. A committee will review submissions and judge using established criteria. Selections will be made and the nominator notified no later than April 26, 2024. It will be the responsibility of the nominator to let the selected recipient know. Awards will be presented at the RBERN West End of Year Celebration Event on Friday, May 31, 2024 from 5:00-6:30pm at Erie 1 BOCES Education Campus, Building B, Room B-1. We ask that the nominators be prepared to present the awards to the selected recipient. Buffet dinner will be served. Register to attend our May 31st event - all are welcome!

Teacher Leader Award
This award will be given to a teacher who has exhibited exceptional leadership in support of ELL education. This is someone who steps outside of their normal classroom responsibilities to support their colleagues, provide professional learning opportunities, and bring awareness to others about best practices to support ELL students.

Eligibility: any teacher of a WNY public school district

Submit a nomination here.

ELL Advocate Award
This award will be given to a staff member who has engaged in meaningful advocacy work on behalf of English language learners. This can include work in the local community and any impact on changes in a local school district and beyond. The intention is to recognize advocacy efforts that have a significant impact, but might not otherwise be known or receive attention.

Eligibility: any staff member of a WNY public school district

Submit a nomination here.

ELL Administrator of the Year

This award will be given to an administrator who goes above and beyond to support the ELLs in their school/district. This is someone who knows and advocates for best practice for ELLs, provides robust professional learning opportunities for staff that empower them to best serve ELLs, and act as a local leader to champion ELL education.

Eligibility: any building or district administrator in a WNY public school district

Submit a nomination here.