McGraw Hill Pathfinder Award Recognizes Innovative Educators

Strategic Insights -

McGraw Hill, a leading provider of education solutions, is now accepting nominations for the McGraw Hill Pathfinder Award Class of 2026. This prestigious award honors innovative educators across preK-12, higher education, and post-graduate education who have helped learners discover their unique paths to success. Each year, three educators are selected for their groundbreaking approaches to teaching, which have achieved positive learning outcomes for their students. The winners will receive a $5,000 cash prize and a Professional Learning Consultation from CAST.

The McGraw Hill Pathfinder Award has been running for four years, with last year's winners including Farah Bennani, PhD, dean of math, science, and engineering at Elgin Community College, who was recognized for using emerging technologies like augmented reality and artificial intelligence to empower students. The award aims to recognize educators who are pushing the boundaries of innovation in education and inspiring others to do the same. "I believe innovation is the cornerstone of the future of education," said Bennani. "The McGraw Hill Pathfinder Award ensures innovation in education does not go unnoticed, while inspiring all educators to continue to push the boundaries."

Key Takeaways:

  • The McGraw Hill Pathfinder Award is a prestigious award that honors innovative educators across preK-12, higher education, and post-graduate education.
  • Each winner receives a $5,000 cash prize and a Professional Learning Consultation from CAST.
  • Last year's winner, Farah Bennani, PhD, was recognized for using emerging technologies to empower students.
  • The award aims to recognize educators who are pushing the boundaries of innovation in education and inspiring others to do the same.
  • Nominations for the McGraw Hill Pathfinder Award Class of 2026 are open until February 13, 2026.
  • The winners will be announced in May 2026.

Statistics:

  • The McGraw Hill Pathfinder Award has been running for four years.
  • Three educators are selected as winners each year.
  • The award is open to educators across preK-12, higher education, and post-graduate education.
  • Last year's winner, Farah Bennani, PhD, is dean of math, science, and engineering at Elgin Community College.
  • The award aims to recognize educators who are achieving positive learning outcomes for their students.

Sources:

  • Businesswire. (2025, November 3). McGraw Hill Announces Call for Nominations for the McGraw Hill Pathfinder Award. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251103086207/en/