The Gilder Lehrman Institute Names Amanda Eskeets as 2024 Utah History Teacher of the Year

The distinguished history educator is one of 53 finalists for the 2024 National History Teacher of

the Year Award, set to receive a $1,000 prize and an invaluable collection of classroom resources

Provo, Utah – July 30, 2024 – Amanda Eskeets, a teacher at Centennial Middle School in

Provo, has been named the 2024 Utah History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman

Institute of American History. Established in 2004, this prestigious award recognizes exceptional

elementary through high school teachers for their outstanding contributions to American

history education.

Presented annually by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, the nation’s leading

nonprofit organization dedicated to K–12 American history education, this award honors one

K–12 teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and

United States Territories.

“In times like these, history teachers play a critical role in shaping students’ understanding of

the past and inspiring hope for the future,” says James G. Basker, president of the Gilder

Lehrman Institute. “Their unwavering dedication to educating our youth is commendable, and

we take great pride in honoring the most exceptional educators across the country.”

Amanda Eskeets grew up in Logan, Utah. She’s known she wanted to be a teacher since she was a little kid. Amanda attended Utah State University, and earned a BS in History with a Teaching Emphasis. She is beginning her 12th year teaching US History at Centennial Middle School in Provo, Utah. Amanda will earn her MA in American History in September through the Gettysburg College–Gilder Lehrman program. She is married, and they have two young children. Amanda is passionate about American history, and teaching students how to think critically. She loves the US and is excited for the future.

“Amanda engages with the field of American history as she teaches it daily, through her

graduate program, and summer programs that she applies for. This summer she will be

traveling to the Mount Vernon Teaching Institute as well as chaperoning a student trip to

Washington DC. These also contribute to students’ passion for history. When Amanda

teaches, she teaches with a passion that is infectious. She encourages critical thinking

and inquiry and inspires students to take part in history every year through field trips,

student-written petitions for change, trips across the country, and more.” -Brookanne Dalby Principal

Mrs. Eskeets will receive a $1,000 honorarium, a core archive of American history books, and

educational materials curated by the Gilder Lehrman Institute. Additionally, HE/SHE will be

recognized at a local ceremony and join the esteemed group of 53 finalists contending for the

2024 National History Teacher of the Year Award.

The national award winner will be announced later this fall, and they will take home a $10,000

grand prize at a special ceremony on Oct. 15, 2024, at the Harvard Club of New York City.