Announcing Britannica’s Inaugural StandOut Awards

Britannica awards educators with the first annual StandOut Awards and $15K in cash prizes.

“Now, more than ever, we need inspired and inspiring individuals, committed to building strong communities, and prioritizing character in an academic world that pulls us in so many different directions.”

Karthik Krishnan, Britannica Group CEO

Every act, big or small, has the opportunity to change a life, a school, a community.

Created to recognize K-12 educators who exhibit strong character and make significant improvements to their schools and communities, the StandOut Awards are a reflection of Britannica’s mission to inspire curiosity and the joy of learning.

Nominees were asked to write short essays explaining their work and practices and were encouraged to share videos about their programs. All entries were carefully reviewed and selected by judges who reflect community building, character development, and a passion for educators and students in their work.

One winner was selected and awarded a cash prize of $10,000. Five finalists were selected and awarded cash prizes of $1,000. Countless inspiring submissions were read, shared, and celebrated by an inspired team at Britannica.

Meet the 2019 StandOut Award Recipients

The 2019 StandOut Award Winner

Robert Schutte

Teacher from Indianapolis, IN

Full-time 7th grade teacher Robert Schutte exemplifies the outstanding characteristics that enhance students’ learning experiences. By creating a robotics program and an award-winning Scrabble team–among other accomplishments–Robert enhanced the learning of core skills through games and technology.

Although while growing up he was inspired by many educators who had an impactful influence on his life, Robert initially did not seek employment in the education field. It wasn’t until a knee injury forced him to take a year off from college that he realized his true passion was to teach. For the past 20 years Robert has been a professional educator, changing the lives of students.

“Robert Schutte has had an inspirational career as a champion for change,” said Eric Delli Bovi, president & CEO of Chicago-based Urban Gateways and one of the award judges. “By creating a broad range of engaging learning opportunities he’s beautifully demonstrated what it means to go the extra mile for his students, school and community.”