District Journalism Teacher of the Year
2024 nomination closes Octber 11.
Every fall, each district votes for an outstanding Journalism Teacher in the district. Nominations are accepted in September and may come from students, other teachers or vendors who work directly with journalism teachers. The winners receive a plaque and $200.
Morty Schaap Journalism Teacher of the Year
The Morty Schaap Journalism Teacher of the Year recognizes outstanding FSPA advisers. Each District Teacher of the Year winner submits a portfolio and letters of recommendation. The portfolios are reviewed by a committee that includes the FSPA Board of Directors, professional journalists and members of collegiate journalism programs. The winner receives a plaque, $500 and an additional $500 for their media program(s).
Established in 1987, the award was named in memory of Morty Schaap, a 25-year professional journalist, turned high school newspaper adviser and FSPA president (1977-1979).
Silver, Gold and Platinum Keys
Advisers who have been FSPA members for five, ten and twenty years are awarded keys. Advisers must check the appropriate information on their convention registration form to receive a key at convention.
Five years – Silver Key
Ten years – Gold Key
Twenty years – Platinum Key
Gold Medallion
Individuals who have made outstanding contributions to high school journalism in Florida for a minimum of five years may be nominated for FSPA’s highest award.
The first Gold Medallion was presented at the 1979 convention to Allen Neuharth, who was the president of Gannett Florida at the time. The award was designed to honor journalism professionals who started their careers in high school journalism. Later the award criteria was changed to recognize individuals who made significant contributions to scholastic journalism and, in particular, FSPA.
FSPA Board of Directors and former Gold Medallion winners nominate individuals, with the former winners voting on the new class of winners.
Lifetime Achievement
Advisers and others who have made significant contributions to scholastic journalism may, upon retirement, be selected for this award.
