Now Accepting Nominations
18th Annual Private and Independent Education Awards
This year’s event is especially meaningful as it also marks MINNDEPENDENT’s 50th Anniversary—honoring five decades of service, support, and advocacy for our vibrant school community.
Together, we’ll celebrate outstanding educators, leaders, volunteers, and programs, reflect on our shared history, and look ahead to the future of student-centered education across Minnesota.
Event Information:
Sunday, April 26 ~ 4-7pm
Mendakota Country Club
Do you know someone who makes a remarkable difference in your school community? Is there a rockstar volunteer who lends a helping hand for every event?
Now is the time to honor them. Nominations are officially open for the Private and Independent Education Awards, and we invite you to recognize the individuals and programs that inspire, lead, and serve with excellence.
Nominees may include a dedicated teacher, a tireless volunteer, a generous donor, an innovative leader, or a program that transforms student learning. If they’ve made a meaningful impact, we want to celebrate them.
Nomination Categories:
- Behind the Scenes Award
- Honors the unsung heroes—staff, coaches, and volunteers who go above and beyond to create welcoming, caring school communities.
- Community Champion Award
- Recognizes individuals or groups who make a positive impact within their school and the broader community, including board members, donors, and dedicated supporters.
- Program Award
- Highlights innovative and successful programs that enhance student learning, engagement, and growth.
- Leadership Award (2 awardees)
- Celebrates visionary school leaders, including heads, presidents, principals, superintendents, and executive directors, whose leadership creates lasting, transformative impact on their schools and communities.
- Honor Teacher Award (2 awardees)
- Recognizing exceptional educators who exemplify passion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to student success, leaving a lasting impact both inside and beyond the classroom.