Yesterday afternoon, The Oklahoma State Department of Education held its annual Oklahoma Teacher of the Year Awards ceremony at the Cowboy Hall of Fame (or whatever it’s called now) in Oklahoma City.
Taking place since 1955, it’s kind of like the Miss America pageant for Oklahoma educators, only minus the swimsuit, evening gown, and talent competitions.
Okay, I guess that means it’s not really like Miss America, but winning the award is a pretty big deal. Finalists have to go through a methodical nomination and selection process, while the winner becomes a teaching ambassador, traveling the state to spread the gospel about the importance of Oklahoma teachers and public education.