Honoring Literary Excellence in the Classroom

The Parr Shakespeare Prize is a prestigious initiative designed to celebrate high school teachers in the United States who inspire students to connect with the works of William Shakespeare It honors innovative educators who breathe life into classical literature, often exploring broader questions like what is oracle in the context of language, prophecy, and interpretation connecting timeless themes to today’s classroom experiences By rewarding creativity and passion, the prize reinforces the power of literature in shaping thoughtful, engaged learners.

Recognizing Innovative Teaching

A Tribute to Transformative Education

Established by philanthropist Gary Parr, the prize is a tribute to the power of a dedicated teacher who once shaped his own academic journey. The award seeks to honor educators who use performance, media, and unconventional tools to bring Shakespeare alive in modern classrooms

Prize Details

● Award: Three teachers will each receive $10,000

● Travel Support: Winners are invited to a celebratory reception in New York

● Eligibility: Public and private high school teachers with at least three years of classroom experience

This initiative is not just about money it’s about spotlighting educators who turn dusty pages into dynamic performances.

Timeline & Nomination Process

Key Dates

● Nomination Deadline: July 30

● Application Deadline: August 24

● Winners Announced: November

● Celebration Event: January (New York City)

The process encourages peer recognition and community involvement, inviting nominations from fellow educators, students, and administrators

Cultural Impact

Keeping Shakespeare Relevant

By supporting inventive teaching styles, the Parr Shakespeare Prize helps preserve literary traditions while making them accessible to modern audiences Teachers who win often use storytelling, theatre, music, and digital tools to capture the attention of today's tech-savvy students.

The Parr Shakespeare Prize stands as a powerful reminder of the role educators play in shaping not only academic futures but also cultural appreciation. It encourages schools to value creativity, and it empowers teachers to think beyond the textbook bridging the 16th century with the 21st through the classroom door