Jewish Educator Awards

Lainer Religious School Nomination form

Download Smotrich Religious School Nomination form

All too often, educators – who are so vital to the learning experiences of students – are not recognized for the significant work that they do. Through the generosity of several community philanthropists, BJE is able to recognize excellence in Jewish education by honoring exemplary educators.

Milken Jewish Educator Awards

Since 1990, the Milken Family Foundation has annually sponsored Jewish Educator Awards, spotlighting outstanding day school educators at BJE-accredited schools. Each year, four educators receive the prestigious awards, including prizes of $15,000 each, at a luncheon hosted by the Milken Family Foundation.

Lainer Awards

In 1997, the late Simha and Sara Lainer, long-time supporters of Jewish education, established annual awards recognizing exemplary Jewish educators in early childhood and complementary Jewish education. Up to three awards, including prizes of $2,500, are presented to distinguished educators at annual professional development conferences, before hundreds of colleagues.

Grinspoon Awards

Early childhood educators who receive the Lainer Award are also nominated for the prestigious national Grinspoon Award for Excellence in Jewish Education. Local award recipients receive a $500 stipend and participate in a national community of practice of Grinspoon-Steinhardt award-winning educators.

Smotrich Awards

In 2002, Dr. Marvin & Mehry and Thom & Iris Smotrich established the Smotrich Family Foundation Award of Merit for excellence in teaching in Religious schools (part-time, complementary schools) and in Early Childhood Education. One award is currently given every year for Early Childhood educators who are early career (2-5 years) educators and who have demonstrated excellence in their educational work. Recipients receive $1,000, and their schools receive $500 in the awardees’ honor.