NEWS & EVENTS
Educators’ Making the Grade Awards Gala
Honoring the Ecosystem That Drives Student Success
Scholarship Education Outreach is proud to present the inaugural Educators’ Making the Grade Awards Gala – a historic celebration honoring the educators, school staff, parents, nonprofit partners, and community champions who empower students across Metro Atlanta.
This signature event brings together education leaders, community partners, and supporters to recognize the individuals and organizations whose dedication, service, and impact strengthen student outcomes and expand pathways to opportunity.
The Educators’ Making the Grade Awards Gala features the Recognition of Excellence Awards, celebrating outstanding educators and school heroes, along with special honors recognizing organizations making a meaningful difference in students’ lives.
Student success is powered by an entire ecosystem of support. From classroom educators to support staff, from families to nonprofit and community partners, this gala honors those who work collaboratively every day to open doors of opportunity and shape brighter futures for the next generation.
Event Details
📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
📍 Location: Atlanta, GA
👔 Attire: Business Formal with Elegant Brunch Style
About the Gala
Student success is not achieved in isolation – it is powered by an entire ecosystem of support. From classroom teachers to support staff, from families to community organizations, each plays a critical role in creating environments where students can thrive.
The Educators’ Making the Grade Awards Gala honors these individuals and organizations who go above and beyond to create meaningful impact in education and student achievement.
Award Categories
- Educator of Excellence Award
Recognizes a classroom teacher who demonstrates outstanding instructional impact, student advocacy, and commitment to academic growth. - Innovative Instruction Award
Honors an educator who uses creativity, innovation, or new approaches to engage students and enhance learning. - Early Learning Champion Award
Celebrates an educator who lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning in early childhood or elementary education. - Student Advocate Award
Honors a counselor, social worker, or support professional who champions student well-being, access, and opportunity. - College & Career Readiness Champion Award
Recognizes an individual who goes above and beyond to prepare students for postsecondary success, including scholarships, workforce readiness, or career exploration. - School Support Hero Award
Honors a school staff member whose service positively impacts school culture, including administrative staff, paraprofessionals, cafeteria staff, and office support.
- Custodian of Excellence Award
Recognizes a janitor or maintenance professional who takes pride in creating a safe, clean, and welcoming school environment. - Transportation Champion Award
Honors a bus driver or transportation staff member who demonstrates care, consistency, and commitment to student safety and connection. - PTA Excellence Award
Recognizes a PTA group that demonstrates outstanding advocacy, collaboration, and support for students, educators, and schools. - Community Education Partner Award
Honors a community organization, nonprofit, or volunteer group that actively supports schools and contributes to student success. - Scholarship Provider of the Year
Recognizes an organization or individual expanding access to scholarship opportunities and helping reduce financial barriers for students. - Divine Nine Organization of the Year (Graduate Chapter Only)
Recognizes a Divine Nine graduate chapter that demonstrates outstanding commitment to advancing education, supporting student success, and creating meaningful impact within schools and communities.
Get Involved
Be part of a powerful movement celebrating those who make student success possible.
