The Kapteyn Prize shall be awarded to candidates who have made a career commitment to teaching in secondary schools of at least seven years and whose excellence in and passion for teaching and learning inspire their students to excel, in the model of the late James C. Kapteyn. Prize winners shall be individuals of exemplary character, integrity, and honor who lead by example and impart to their students a lifelong love of learning and dedication to personal growth.

The overarching priority of the Kapteyn Prize shall be to recognize “whole child teachers” or teachers who serve in multiple capacities within a school community. The concept of a “whole child teacher” builds from the so called “triple threat” faculty model of traditional boarding schools in which classroom teachers also serve as, for example, coaches, dorm parents, tutors, and administrators or work with students in the visual or performing arts or other special study programs. “Whole child teachers” mentor students simultaneously in several different contexts, thus forming deep bonds that enhance their ability to guide the students they touch.

The endowment fund that will support the Kapteyn Prize is made up of gifts from family, friends, colleagues, former students and their families, and anyone who would like to see the legacy of James C. Kapteyn continue for future generations of educators and students.

Please visit the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation’s website for the application materials.