Press Release: National Cyber Director Opens 2024 Presidential Cybersecurity Education Award Nominations

July 26, 2024

RENO – National Cyber Director Harry Coker, Jr. today launched the nomination process to honor two K-12 teachers through the 2024 Presidential Cybersecurity Education Award program.

Established by the U.S. Department of Education (ED), the award program is part of a coordinated federal effort to highlight the importance of teachers in every academic discipline in developing a skilled and resilient cybersecurity workforce. ED leads the award process in consultation with The White House Office of the National Cyber Director and the National Science Foundation.

“We live in an increasingly digital world and one where we are eager to bring more Americans into careers in cybersecurity,” said National Cyber Director Harry Coker Jr. “Today we have approximately half a million open cybersecurity jobs in our nation, a challenge that not only affects our national security but also our economic prosperity. America has the talent to rise to meet this challenge and one of the most important advantages we have is America’s incredible teachers who are inspiring and training the future cybersecurity workforce everyday. We are proud to celebrate their tremendous dedication and work and join our partners at the Department of Education for championing the teachers who are helping inspire the next generation.”

“Our teachers’ dedication and passion are pivotal in nurturing the cybersecurity experts of tomorrow,” said U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Cindy Marten. “Their students will go on to protect our Nation’s critical infrastructure and ensure our national security. The Presidential Cybersecurity Education Award recognizes the indispensable role that teachers play in this essential endeavor.”

Award recipients embody the expertise and dedication of teachers who are critical to strengthening the nation’s cybersecurity workforce. They are selected for their superior accomplishments as teachers, academic achievement indicators, and leadership contributing to the field of cybersecurity.

Teachers from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, all U.S. territories, Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools, and Tribal areas are eligible to apply or be nominated. Anyone may nominate a teacher for this honor, including parents, students, fellow teachers, and community members; self-nominations are also permitted.  An online information session is being held by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) NICE program on July 30, 2024 for applicants and nominators.

The nomination period opens Thursday, August 1, 2024 and will close on September 13, 2024. The Department plans to announce winners in December 2024 at the NICE K12 Cybersecurity Education Conference. For the rules, terms, and conditions and details on how to apply, please visit https://cte.ed.gov/cyberaward.

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