Canada crowns its 60 best teachers — and opens nominations for next year

Sixty educators across Canada just got the country's highest teaching honour. Announced on October 5 in Ottawa by ministers Mélanie Joly and Patty Hajdu on behalf of Prime Minister Mark Carney, the 2026 Prime Minister's Awards celebrate Teaching Excellence, Teaching Excellence in STEM, and Excellence in Early Childhood Education at regional and national levels. Carney called teachers 'at the heart' of transforming the country; Joly praised educators who help young people chase their dreams, think creatively and ask bold questions. The 2027 nomination period opened the same day — Canadians are invited to name an exceptional educator in their own community.