Educator Recognition and Award Opportunities

Maryland is fortunate to be the home of many talented and dedicated educators. The Maryland Council on Economic Education proudly supports the educators and is proud to promote programs and opportunities that recognize and honor inspirational and innovative educators.

Maryland Financial Education and Capability Awards

The Financial Education and Capability Awards Program highlights the dedication and success of public school teachers, community champions and outstanding organizations who deliver financial education. Financial Education focuses on a range of financial management concepts and behaviors including budgeting, careers and income, credit, savings financial decision making, and understanding values and habits about money.

Together with the CASH Campaign of Maryland, the Maryland State Department of Education, MCEE is pleased to offer an annual award in each of the following categories.

  • Public Elementary School Teacher (or Program) Award
  • Public Middle School Teacher (or Program) Award
  • Public High School Teacher (or Program) Award
  • Community Champion (Volunteer or Staff) supporting adult financial education at the local level
  • Outstanding Organization supporting/championing adult financial education in their communities

This prestigious award is accompanied by state wide recognition and a $1,000 cash prize. The 2024 Financial Education and Capability Awards Program were generously sponsored by the Maryland Society of Accounting and Tax Professionals and the Woodside Foundation.

Winners are celebrated with a ceremony at the Maryland General Assembly and an awardee reception sponsored generously by SECU of Maryland.

    2025 Timeline for Awards

    • November 15, 2024 through January 31, 2025 Nomination Process Open
    • February 14, 2025 Winners are Notified
    • March 102025 (evening) Maryland General Assembly Award Ceremony and Reception

    More details and eligibility requirements can be found in this document.

    The Nomination Process for the 2025 Awards is Open!

    Please join us in celebrating the 2024 Winners

    • Public Elementary School Teacher: Amy Cargiulo, Waverly Elementary, Howard County Public Schools
    • Public Middle School Teacher: Nicholas Berluti, Kingsville Middle, Montgomery County Public Schools
    • Public High School Teacher: Susan Bistransin, Prince George’s County Public Schools
    • Community Champion: Mary Ellen Mitchell, CEO/Funder of Housing Frederick
    • Outstanding Organization: United Way of Frederick County

      2024 Awards Program Video

      John Morton Excellence in the Teaching of Economics Awards

      Each year, the national Council for Economic Education (CEE) awards the John Morton Excellence in the Teaching of Economics Awards to three K-12 educators who excel in economic education. These awards honor teachers whose innovative approaches foster a deeper understanding of economics.

      Categories:

      • Elementary school (grades K-4)
      • Middle/junior high school (grades 5-8)
      • High school (grades 9-12)

      Award winners receive $1,000 and recognition at CEE’s Annual Financial Literacy & Economic Education Conference, with travel expenses covered. Applications open each spring, and more information can be found here.

      Ravens Touchdown for Teachers

      The Baltimore Ravens Touchdown for Teachers program, presented by M&T Bank, celebrates three teachers annually for their exceptional service to schools and communities. Teachers may self-nominate or be nominated by peers or community members.

      Awards:

      • Grand Prize: $4,000 grant and a school visit by a Ravens player, Poe, and Cheerleaders
      • Two Additional Winners: $1,000 grant each

      Selection criteria include community involvement, positive impact, and a commitment to education. The nomination period typically begins in late February or early April.