The Mary K. Bonsteel Tachau Teacher of the Year Award is given annually by the Organization of American Historians in recognition of the contributions made by pre-collegiate teachers to improve history education within the field of American history. Nominees must be pre-collegiate teachers engaged at least half-time in U.S. history teaching, whether in history or social studies. Candidates may be nominated by any person familiar with the nominee's professional accomplishments or standing or nominate themselves. A cover letter written by a colleague indicating why the teacher merits the award and two letters written by former or present students are required. Samples of the nominee's written work must also be submitted. These submissions should include article reprints, reports by classroom observers, course outlines, research proposals, and/or other evidence of excellence in some or all of the areas mentioned in the criteria. Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references, including the writer of the cover letter, at least one of whom must be a colleague or supervisor are also required. Please visit the award's website or contact the Organization of American Historians for more information.