Do you believe that reading for pleasure can change students’ lives—but struggle to find the time, resources, or support to make it a consistent part of your school day? The National Book Foundation’s Teacher Fellowship is designed for educators like you.
The NBF Teacher Fellowship supports and celebrates 6th–12th grade teachers who use creative, student-centered approaches to spark a lifelong love of reading. Fellows are recognized for their innovative work and given the tools, funding, and community needed to expand it—making independent reading more accessible, engaging, and joyful for students.
What the Fellowship Supports
Through the program, Fellows develop or continue a classroom initiative that promotes reading for pleasure and helps students build meaningful relationships with books. Participants incorporate National Book Award–honored titles into their instruction and explore new ways to connect young people with powerful, diverse literature. Just as important, Fellows collaborate with a national cohort of like-minded educators, sharing ideas, challenges, and successes along the way.
A National Community of Educators—and a Celebration in New York City
Fellows take part in a professional learning community that includes fellow teachers, professional authors, National Book Foundation staff, and other literacy leaders. The Fellowship culminates in an in-person convening and celebration in New York City, offering a rare opportunity to connect, reflect, and be recognized on a national stage.
Resources to Bring Your Vision to Life
Teachers selected as Fellows receive meaningful financial and professional support, including:
- A $3,000 stipend upon completion of the program
- A $2,000 budget for purchasing and shipping books
- Ongoing collaboration through a professional learning community with other Fellows, as well as professional authors, and National Book Foundation staff
- Round-trip travel, hotel accommodations, and a daily travel stipend to attend the final in-person celebration in New York City (May/June, exact date TBD)
If you’re ready to strengthen your reading program, elevate student voice and choice, and join a national network of educators committed to literacy, consider applying for the National Book Foundation Teacher Fellowship. This is more than a professional opportunity—it’s a chance to help students discover the joy and power of reading.
Applications will be accepted until Friday, February 27, 2026, at 11:59pm EST.
