CHILDHOOD 2027
celebrating those who protect wonder
CHILDHOOD Champions Awards
A celebration of the schools and educators protecting wonder, imagination, and humanity in learning.
The Childhood Champions Awards honor schools, leaders, and emerging models that are courageously reimagining what childhood can look like in education. These awards aren’t about rankings or prestige… they’re about recognition, encouragement, and amplification.
Final nominees will receive TWO free tickets to attend CHILDHOOD Conference!
Nominations
Open now – November 30
Voting
December 1 – 15
Winners announced
at CHILDHOOD · January 15–16, 2027
Three ways to be a champion
Award Categories
“School of Wonder” Award
For public or private schools boldly reimagining childhood-centered learning.
This award recognizes a school that prioritizes joy, curiosity, and belonging; designs learning around children, not systems; honors play, creativity, and whole-child development.
“Innovator in Action” Award
For an educator, leader, or principal leading creative change from within.
This award celebrates an individual who pushes boundaries with courage and care; advocates for children in systems that resist change; leads with humanity, imagination, and conviction.
“The Spark” Award
For emerging microschools, start-ups, or early-stage education models.
This award honors a new or growing initiative that: is still small, but powerful; carries bold vision and deep purpose; represents the future of learning done differently.
Nominations open through November 30
Nominate a Champion
who is protecting childhood near you?
Know a school, educator, or new learning model that deserves to be celebrated? Tell us about them. Nominate as many champions as you like, one nomination per form.
Voting · December 1 – 15
Vote for the 2027 Champions
Only one vote per person. Winners will be announced at CHILDHOOD!
Voting opens December 1!