Distinguished Secondary School Teacher Award
Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Distinguished Secondary School Teacher Award (DSTA) Program
In the fall, President Morton Schapiro invites graduating Northwestern undergraduate seniors to nominate high school teachers who have had a transforming impact on the lives of students. This program, sponsored by the Office of the President with the cooperation of the School of Education and Social Policy, and supported by the Associated Student Government, recognizes the transforming power of high school teachers in our lives and our communities. This academic year (2020-21) marks ten years of the DSTA program at Northwestern University.
A selection committee made up of Northwestern faculty, staff, and students; chaired by Eugene Lowe, Assistant to the President and Senior Lecturer in Religious Studies, reviews the nominations and requests teaching portfolios from nominated teachers for finalist consideration.
A small group of finalists are interviewed, and the committee recommends five outstanding teachers to President Schapiro for this recognition.
Winners of the award are invited to participate in Commencement exercises in June. Each teacher honored receives an award of $5,000. The winning teacher's high school also receives an award of $5,000.
Nominations are no longer being accepted for the 2021 Distinguished Secondary School Teacher Award (DSTA). Thank you to all those that participated this year. We look forward to accepting nominations for the 2022 DSTA in the upcoming Fall term.
If you have any questions about the award, please e-mail DSTAwards@northwestern.edu.
Reflections from Former Winners
Each year, Northwestern University recognizes five outstanding high school teachers with the DST Award at its June Commencement exercises.
2020: Students' Tribute to DSTA Winners
2019: Students' Tribute to DSTA Winners
2018: Students' Tribute to DSTA Winners
2017: Students' Tribute to DSTA Winners
Reflections from 2015 DST Award Winners
Message from the President
President Morton Schapiro shares his thoughts on the Distinguished Secondary School Teacher Award.