iHeartMedia has launched a new nationwide campaign, “Thank a Teacher,” in partnership with longtime collaborator DonorsChoose. The initiative aims to spotlight and support public school educators as they prepare for the upcoming academic year.
Running through August 29, the campaign invites listeners to nominate standout public school teachers who go above and beyond for their students. DonorsChoose will review all submissions to confirm that the nominees are current U.S. public school educators.
Throughout August, iHeartRadio stations will feature nominated teachers on-air in local markets. In September, five educators will be randomly selected to receive $5,000 DonorsChoose gift cards to support classroom needs.
“Every year, millions of educators spend their own money to fill gaps in classroom resources to ensure that their students have the tools they need to succeed,” said Jon Zellner, President of Programming Operations and Digital Music for iHeartMedia. “Many go even further. Offering emotional support to students facing challenges both inside and outside the classroom. iHeartRadio’s ‘Thank a Teacher’ aims to shine a light on the quiet and positive work happening in classrooms across the country. And to offer a very public thank you to the teachers who are doing so much.”
To drive awareness, iHeartMedia has committed $500,000 in public service announcements across its portfolio of radio stations. The PSAs will promote DonorsChoose and encourage listeners to support public school classrooms by donating at DonorsChoose.org.
“Public school teachers are about to launch the back-to-school season. And they’re doing everything they can to prepare their classrooms for students,” said DonorsChoose CEO Alix Guerrier. “iHeartRadio’s ‘Thank a Teacher’ is making sure that educators feel appreciated for going the extra mile, especially as they work hard to get students what they need to kick off a new school year.”
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