Avonworth’s Becky Marszalek Honored with National Teaching Excellence Award

Congratulations to Becky Marszalek on being selected as Pennsylvania’s 2026 recipient of the Travelers Insurance Award for Teaching Excellence from the NEA Foundation, honoring her exceptional leadership, teaching excellence, and positive impact on the community.

"This is such an incredible honor and I am so humbled to be the recipient and to represent Avonworth School District," said Ms. Marszalek.

The NEA Foundation announced that 48 public school educators from across the country have been selected for this esteemed award. These honorees, serving in urban, rural, and suburban schools, are being recognized for their excellence in the classroom, leadership in the profession, engagement in their communities, and commitment to expanding opportunities for all through public education.

“These exceptional educators exemplify the heart and soul of public education,” said Sara A. Sneed, President and CEO of The NEA Foundation in a press release. “Their unwavering dedication to creating pathways to success for all students through high-quality learning environments and supportive teaching practices, even in the face of immense challenges, is both inspiring and essential.”

Len Mariani, Senior Vice President of Direct Distribution for Travelers, added: “Each one of these educators has gone above and beyond to support their students and communities. We are proud to continue our partnership with The NEA Foundation to celebrate these remarkable individuals and the critical role public school educators play in communities across the United States.”

Since 2001, The NEA Foundation has honored hundreds of educators nationwide with the Awards for Teaching Excellence. This year’s honorees will be celebrated at the 2026 Salute to Excellence in Education Gala on February 13, 2026, at The Anthem in Washington, D.C.

To learn more about this year’s awardees and the Salute to Excellence in Education Gala, visit www.neafoundation.org.