The Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching recognizes and celebrates New York City classroom teachers who foster relationships with their students to instill a love of learning, ensure students at all levels achieve their full potential, and serve as leaders in their school communities.
Named for renowned investor and philanthropist Julian Robertson, the Award recognizes up to ten teachers per year for outstanding classroom instruction and leadership within their school communities and provides them with a $20,000 unrestricted cash prize.
For 2024-25, we welcome nominations for any current, full-time classroom teacher, of any subject or age/grade level, from eligible schools.
Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching Key Dates 2024-2025
| Nominations Close | October 25, 2024 |
| Teacher Applications Close | November 4, 2024 |
| Select Teachers Invited to Share More Information | Winter 2025 |
| Class Visits for Finalists | Spring 2025 |
| Winners Announced & Celebration! | Spring 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching, and why are you launching it?
The Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching is an annual prize to celebrate outstanding NYC teachers who have shown remarkable dedication to their students and have had a significant impact on their lives and learning. It is also intended to honor those who have demonstrated exemplary leadership within their school communities. Each year, up to ten teachers will receive a $20,000 unrestricted cash award.
We are launching the award because teachers are vital to the success of New York City and to the future promise of its young people. Now, more than ever, our teachers need our support and recognition. This Award is designed as one small way to elevate the incredible work teachers are doing every day for the children of our city.
2024 is the inaugural and pilot year of the Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching, and we anticipate listening, learning, and evolving the Award over time to maximize its impact.
Who was Julian Robertson?
Julian Robertson was a renowned investor, philanthropist, and mentor. He was known for his commitment to education, results, leadership, and ethical values. Julian passed away in 2022, and this Award is designed to recognize excellent teachers, honor his deep belief in the power of great people to do remarkable things, and continue his legacy of commitments to education in New York City.
What is this award hoping to accomplish?
The Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching has three primary objectives:
- To honor and celebrate great teaching and innovative approaches that inspire and impact students.
- To meet the moment. From the challenges of the COVID pandemic to the promises of new technology, the Award seeks to celebrate and uplift the inspiring ways teachers and schools use their talents and abilities to respond to new challenges and opportunities.
- To honor Julian Robertson, by creating an award and, ultimately, a community of prize winners and recognized schools, that reflects his deep belief in the power of great teaching and that honors his commitments to education in New York City.
The Award is also built on a commitment to outcomes-based and data-informed decision-making, as well as a firm belief that it is more important to focus attention on those doing the work than on those supporting it. While the Award is an effort to recognize and celebrate great teaching and extraordinary commitments made to young people’s education and development, it is also designed to elevate school communities and celebrate learning.
Are you affiliated with NYCPS or any other teaching award?
No, the Julian Robertson Award for Excellence in Teaching is not affiliated with NYCPS or any other teaching award.