Blog:

November 11, 2024

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) is proud to announce the winners of the inaugural Cyber Futures Teacher Award for the 2023-2024 school year. Sponsored by ONR and supported by key partners in the tech and defense industries, this award recognizes high school teachers who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to fostering interest and excellence in cybersecurity and computer science education among students.

As the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to grow, ONR and its partners recognize that inspiring the next generation begins in the classroom. Teachers play a pivotal role in guiding students toward critical fields like cybersecurity, and this award celebrates those educators who go above and beyond to prepare students for rewarding careers in tech.

Each of the 10 winning teachers was selected from a competitive pool of nominees across the country and will receive a $1,500 cash award. These educators have been acknowledged for their dedication to making cybersecurity education accessible and engaging, often incorporating hands-on learning, game-based methods, and real-world applications in their classrooms.

Congratulations to this year’s Cyber Futures Teacher Award recipients!

• Mr. Ethan Drummond, Crestwood High School, Pacific Northwest Region
• Ms. Imani Ross, East Bay High School, California Region
• Dr. Priya Patel, Jackson Tech Magnet, Texas Region
• Mr. Jonathan Li, Midtown Academy, New York Region
• Ms. Rachel Fong, Fairmount STEM School, Illinois Region
• Mr. Carlos Ortiz, Willow Creek High, New Mexico Region
• Ms. Sarah Cooper, Jefferson High School, Mid-Atlantic Region
• Dr. Andrew Reeves, Pine Lake Academy, Southeast Region
• Ms. Elena Gonzalez, Northridge High School, Arizona Region
• Mr. David Kim, Sun Valley High School, Virginia Region

These outstanding educators have inspired hundreds of students, bringing cybersecurity to life through engaging projects, community outreach, and innovative teaching strategies. Their work contributes to a future workforce that will be prepared to tackle the evolving challenges of cybersecurity.

Each winner will be honored at the upcoming Cyber Education Summit, hosted by ONR and featuring workshops, networking opportunities, and discussions with industry experts. The summit will highlight the critical importance of cybersecurity in today’s world and the role educators play in fostering skills that protect our digital future.

ONR, along with its partners, is excited to continue supporting high school educators through initiatives like Step Into the Cyber Workforce and future scholarship opportunities for students interested in cybersecurity. This effort is part of a broader mission to equip students with the skills, confidence, and inspiration to pursue careers that make a difference.

To the winners and all educators who dedicate themselves to inspiring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals: Thank you for your dedication and commitment to excellence.