Jill Biden to Host White House ‘State Dinner’ in Honor of America’s 2024 Teachers of the Year

First Lady Jill Biden Hosts Teachers of the Year at White House State Dinner

WASHINGTON – First lady Jill Biden welcomed over 50 of America’s top educators to the White House on Thursday for a special dinner honoring the 2024 national and state teachers of the year. These teachers were recognized for their dedication to students and excellence in the classroom.

Typically, the teachers attend a White House ceremony each year after being selected by an organization representing elementary and secondary school educators. However, due to the pandemic, they were unable to visit in recent years. This year, Jill Biden, who teaches English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College, decided to host the teachers for a special “state dinner” instead.

The change was announced during a televised appearance in April with Missy Testerman, the 2024 National Teacher of the Year from Tennessee. The first lady expressed her excitement for the event, calling it one of her favorites at the White House.

While a White House state dinner is usually reserved for diplomatic purposes with close U.S. allies, the teachers were treated to a more stripped-down version of the event. Attendees included teachers from 49 states, American territories, and federal entities, with notable guests like Doug Emhoff, husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, and Education Secretary Miguel Cardona.

The National Teacher of the Year Program is overseen by the Council of Chief State School Officers, highlighting the importance of recognizing and celebrating the hard work and dedication of educators across the country.