Teacher Tribute Honors Educators Who Go Above and Beyond in the Big Country

Celebrating Educators Who Go the Extra Mile

Teacher Tribute is an annual program that gives students, ranging from Head Start through high school, the opportunity to recognize and celebrate teachers, coaches, or counselors who have made a significant impact on their lives. Many educators in Abilene and across West Texas go above and beyond, not only helping students with academic success but also caring for those who may face challenges at home. These dedicated individuals leave lasting impressions on students, shaping their futures in ways that extend beyond the classroom.

The Heart Behind Teacher Tribute

Founded by Arrow Ford, the Teacher Tribute is the brainchild of President/Owner Seaton Higginbotham, who envisioned a way to highlight the extraordinary contributions teachers make every day. An independent panel reviews nomination letters from students, and selected winners are honored for their contributions to the children who nominated them, and for positively influencing countless other students as well.

Prizes, Publicity, and Community Support

When a teacher is chosen as a Teacher Tribute winner, they are showered with praise and fantastic prizes courtesy of our community partners:

• Arrow Ford: The biggest reveal comes when an Arrow Ford spokesperson presents the Teacher Tribute winner with a $100 check, additional gift cards, and the keys to a brand-new car, which the educator can drive for a predetermined time. Meanwhile, the nominating student also receives a prize package, including gift cards and more.
• KEAN-105: The winning teacher and nominating student will be featured on the radio, sharing their stories live.
• KTXS TV (Channel 12): Both teacher and student will make a special appearance on the morning news segment.
• Hispanic Life Magazine: A dedicated article will showcase the winner and their story for readers across the region.
• Lamar Billboards: The winning teacher’s photo will appear on a prominent billboard, celebrating their contribution to education.
• Exceptional Brands: Gift cards from local restaurants are provided, offering a delicious “thank you” to the winners.

Who Can Nominate and How

Any student in the Big Country, whether in Head Start, elementary, middle, or high school, can nominate a teacher who has gone above and beyond. Perhaps your teacher stayed after class to provide extra help, supported you through family challenges, or inspired you to pursue your dreams. Now is your chance to let others know why your educator deserves special recognition.

How to Submit Your Nomination

• Nomination Forms: Pick up a Teacher Tribute nomination form in your school’s office.
• Online Submissions: Visit ArrowFord.com/TeacherTribute and fill out the nomination form.
• Share Your Story: Write about why your chosen educator should be recognized and how they made a difference in your life.

Join Us in Honoring Outstanding Teachers

As we head into the 2024-2025 school year, Teacher Tribute continues its mission of shining a spotlight on remarkable educators in Abilene and all across West Texas. Let’s show our appreciation by nominating the teachers who guide, motivate, and support our students every day. With your help, we can say “thank you” in a big way to those who give so much of themselves to shape our future leaders.

For more details and updates, visit ArrowFord.com/TeacherTribute, listen to KEAN-105, or tune into KTXS TV for special announcements throughout the year. Let’s come together to celebrate the extraordinary work of our educators and make the 2024-2025 Teacher Tribute the best one yet!