Teacher Awards & Scholarships

The THOA Distinguished Teacher Award is a prestigious lifetime achievement honor presented by the Texas Health Occupations Association (THOA). This award recognizes exemplary Health Science educators who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to excellence in teaching and have made significant contributions to the field of Career and Technical Education within Health Science.


To be eligible for the Distinguished Teacher Award, candidates must possess a minimum of ten years of experience teaching CTE courses that align with the Health Science Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards. Recipients of this award are selected based on their dedication to student success, innovative instructional practices, leadership within the school and professional community, and a proven record of advancing Health Science education.


This award not only honors the educator’s outstanding career achievements and impact on students but also acknowledges their role in shaping the future of Health Science education in Texas. The THOA Distinguished Teacher Award serves as a testament to the recipient’s lifelong commitment to fostering excellence, professionalism, and growth within the Health Science education community.

Distinguished Teacher Award Page

The Texas Health Occupations Association (THOA) offers two annual scholarships to support teachers in their professional development and career advancement within Career and Technical Education (CTE):

  • New Teacher Scholarship: Awarded to an educator with 1–3 years of teaching experience.
  • Experienced Teacher Scholarship: Awarded to an educator with 4 or more years of teaching experience.

Each scholarship is valued at $500 and is intended to assist with expenses related to career advancement. Eligible uses include, but are not limited to:

  • Alternative certification programs
  • Training necessary to prepare for teaching CTE courses

These scholarships are designed to encourage and support teachers as they pursue further qualifications and training to enhance their effectiveness in the classroom and contribute to the advancement of CTE education.

Teacher Scholarship Page

The Outstanding Teacher Awards, presented annually by the Texas Health Occupations Association (THOA), recognize the exceptional contributions of two Health Science educators—one new teacher and one experienced teacher. These awards are designed to honor educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching, a strong commitment to their students, and a passion for advancing Health Science education.


By distinguishing both new and seasoned teachers, the awards emphasize the importance of supporting educators at different stages of their careers. The recognition serves not only to celebrate their achievements but also to motivate recipients and their peers to engage in continuous professional growth.


These awards aim to foster a culture of lifelong learning and professional development within the Health Science teaching community. Recipients are encouraged to pursue ongoing education, training, and skill enhancement to remain current with evolving industry standards and educational best practices. Through this commitment, the Outstanding Teacher Awards contribute to raising the quality and effectiveness of Health Science education across Texas.

Outstanding New & Experienced Teachers Award Page