Murray State University seeks nominations for Outstanding Teacher Awards ahead of annual Sparks Lecture

MURRAY, Ky. — Murray State University’s College of Education and Human Services will host its annual Sparks Lecture from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3 at Alexander Hall. The event is free and open to the public. Fitting to the Outstanding Teacher Awards, May 3  is recognized as this year’s National Teachers’ Day. Following the lecture and awards portions of the event, a complimentary fish fry dinner will be served. 

The categories for the Outstanding Teacher Awards are as follows: 

• • • • Outstanding Early Childhood Teacher (head-start and preschool teachers)

      • Outstanding Elementary School Teacher (all elementary school teachers)

      • Outstanding Middle School Teacher (all middle school teachers)

      • Outstanding High School Teacher (all high school and CTE teachers)

The deadline to submit nominations for an Outstanding Teacher Award is Monday, April 11. More information, including the nomination form, can be found online at bit.ly/sparkslecture2022 (case sensitive).

Award recipients will be recognized at the 2022 Sparks Lecture, an event named after Dr. Harry M. Sparks, the University’s fifth president. This year's lecture will be delivered by Murray State President Dr. Bob Jackson, who will speak on this year's centennial celebration of Murray State University and specifically the 100th anniversary of the College of Education and Human Services. Murray State’s centennial book, "The Finest Place We Know," celebrates its 100-year story by looking back on the people, places, and events which have shaped the institution’s history. The book is written by Jackson and co-authored with Sarah Marie Owens, library specialist with Pogue Special Collections and University Archives, and Dr. Sean J. McLaughlin, the archives and museum director.  

“We look forward to honoring outstanding teachers in our communities and hope you will join us in celebrating them as well,” said Dr. David Whaley, dean of the College of Education and Human Services.

Those interested in attending this community-wide event should RSVP by April 26 to msu.coehsdean@murraystate.edu or call 270-809-3817.