McElroy Trust Announces Award Program for Teachers

A gold star at the top of a school paper is a powerful symbol to a student. But students are not the only people who can receive a star for a job well done. The R. J. McElroy Trust and KWWL Television will be celebrating their thirty-eighth year recognizing ten area teachers with  the "Gold Star Award for Outstanding Teaching.” Each winning teacher will receive a $1,000  cash award and $1,000 classroom grant. 

"When we honor our teachers, we honor the future of our community." said Megan McKenzie, McElroy Trust Executive Director. "One way we put honor into action is selecting and recognizing ten outstanding teachers in Black Hawk County." 

Nominations opened on Monday, January 19, 2026. To nominate a teacher online go to www.goldstarteacher.com.   

Eligible nominees must be employed as non-administrative staff, hold a current teaching certificate, and be teaching at a state certified preschool, or an elementary, intermediate, or secondary school approved by the Iowa Department of Education and located in Black Hawk County, Iowa. Both full- and part-time teachers are eligible and encouraged to  apply. 

"We all remember our favorite teachers." said James B. Waterbury, Trustee, R. J.  McElroy Trust. "The Gold Star Awards helps our students, schools, parents and communities thank 10 great teachers every year in a way they will always remember, too."